Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on relieving symptoms by improving interpersonal functioning. It is a time-limited, focused, and evidence-based approach to treat mood disorders. IPT addresses current problems and relationships rather than childhood or developmental issues. Therapists are active, non-neutral, supportive, and hopeful, and they offer options for change. IPT is structured, time-limited (active phase is usually 12–16 weeks), and focuses on interpersonal relationships and communication. It aims to improve interpersonal functioning and social support. IPT is delivered in one-to-one and group formats.
IPT focuses on four areas: conflict in relationships that is a source of tension and distress, life changes, such as job loss or the birth of a child, interpersonal deficits, including social isolation or involvement in unfulfilling relationships, and interpersonal disputes that emerge from conflicting expectations between partners, family members, close friends, or coworkers. IPT can help patients manage unresolved grief if the onset of distress is linked to the death of a loved one, either recent or past. It can also help with difficult life transitions like retirement, divorce, or a move.
IPT was originally developed to treat major depressive disorder, but it’s also used effectively to treat eating disorders, perinatal depression, drug and alcohol addiction, dysthymia, bipolar disorder, and other mood-related conditions. IPT differs from other traditional psychodynamic approaches in that it examines interpersonal relationships and social functioning, aiming to help reduce overall distress. IPT provides strategies to resolve problems within the four key areas mentioned above.
