Interpersonal psychotherapy

Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is a brief, attachment-focused psychotherapy that centers on resolving interpersonal problems and symptomatic recovery. It is an empirically supported treatment (EST) that follows a highly structured and time-limited approach and is intended to be completed within 12–16 weeks. IPT is based on the principle that there is a relationship between the way people communicate and interact with others and their mental health.

History

Interpersonal psychotherapy was developed in the 1970s by Gerald L. Klerman and Myrna M. Weissman for major depressive disorder. The therapy was later expanded for use with other mental health disorders, including bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and substance use disorder.

Principles

The main principles of interpersonal psychotherapy are:

• Symptom formation: IPT proposes that psychiatric symptoms are often a response to difficulties in interpersonal relationships.
• Interpersonal incidents: IPT focuses on the recent interpersonal incidents that are associated with the onset of a patient's symptoms.
• Communication analysis: IPT helps patients to analyze their communication with others and to improve how they express their emotions and needs.
• Role transitions: IPT helps patients to cope with changes in their roles or circumstances, such as becoming a parent or retiring.

Techniques

The techniques used in interpersonal psychotherapy include:

• Clarification: Helping the patient to express their feelings and needs more clearly.
• Communication analysis: Analyzing the patient's interactions with others to identify patterns that may be contributing to their symptoms.
• Role play: Practicing new ways of interacting with others.
• Exploration of options: Helping the patient to consider different ways of dealing with interpersonal problems.

Effectiveness

Numerous studies have shown that interpersonal psychotherapy is effective for treating a variety of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. It is considered a first-line treatment for major depressive disorder.

See also

• Psychotherapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Dialectical behavior therapy
• Psychodynamic psychotherapy

References

Interpersonal psychotherapy Resources
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