Interpersonal Therapy

What interpersonal therapy actually is

Interpersonal therapy, usually shortened to IPT, is a structured form of talk therapy built on a simple observation. The way we’re doing in our relationships and the way we’re feeling are tightly linked. When a relationship is in trouble or a big life change hits, mood often suffers, and a low mood can strain relationships in return.

IPT works on that link. Rather than digging deep into childhood or focusing mainly on thought patterns, it looks at what’s happening in your current relationships and life circumstances, and it works to improve those.

What it looks like in practice

IPT is time-limited, often running around twelve to sixteen weekly sessions. Early on, you and the therapist map out your relationships and pick a focus area. IPT usually centers on one of a few common themes: grief after a loss, conflict in an important relationship, a major role change like a new job or becoming a parent, or difficulty connecting with others.

From there, the work is practical. You might practice communicating a need more directly, work through a loss, or build a support network during a transition. There’s strong research evidence that IPT helps with depression, including depression after childbirth, and it’s also been studied for other conditions.

What it isn’t

IPT isn’t couples therapy, even though it deals with relationships. The work happens with you, focused on how you handle and respond to the people in your life. It also isn’t open-ended. The time limit and clear focus are part of the design.

And it isn’t the same as CBT. Both are structured and evidence-based, but CBT centers on thoughts and behaviors while IPT centers on relationships and roles. Some people respond better to one than the other.

Related terms you’ll see next

• CBT
• Psychodynamic therapy
• Attachment
• Behavioral activation

When to seek professional care

If your low mood seems tied to a loss, a relationship conflict, or a major life change, IPT may be worth asking about. A licensed therapist can tell you whether it fits your situation. If depression is severe, or if you’re having thoughts of harming yourself, don’t wait for an appointment. Contact a professional or a crisis line right away.

<blockquote>
  <p><strong>Interpersonal Therapy:</strong> Interpersonal therapy (IPT) is a structured, time-limited talk therapy. It focuses on relationships and life changes, and it has strong evidence for treating depression.</p>
  <p>&mdash; <a href="https://shrinktionary.com/terms/interpersonal-therapy/">Shrinktionary</a>, a plain-English mental health dictionary, medically reviewed by a board certified psychiatrist.</p>
</blockquote>