What is IPT?

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) is a type of talking therapy that focuses on improving your relationships with others and addressing problems that may arise in those interactions. It’s based on the idea that personal relationships and life events greatly influence your mental health. By improving your communication and relational skills, IPT helps you manage and reduce symptoms of mental health conditions.

How Does IPT Work?

During IPT, we’ll work together to identify and understand the problems in your interpersonal relationships that may be contributing to your mental health issues. IPT typically focuses on one or more of the following areas:

  • Grief and Loss: Coping with the death of a loved one or other significant losses.
  • Role Transitions: Adjusting to major life changes, such as starting a new job, getting married, having a baby, or retiring.
  • Interpersonal Disputes: Resolving conflicts and improving communication with friends, family, or colleagues.
  • Interpersonal Sensitivities: Addressing social isolation or difficulty forming and maintaining relationships.

What Can IPT Help With?

IPT is effective for treating a variety of mental health conditions, including:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

What to Expect in an IPT Session

In our IPT sessions, we’ll work together to:

  1. Identify Problem Areas: We’ll start by discussing your current relationships and identifying any issues that may be contributing to your mental health problems.
  2. Set Goals: We’ll establish specific goals for improving your interpersonal relationships and managing your mental health symptoms.
  3. Develop Strategies: We’ll work on developing practical strategies and communication skills to address and resolve interpersonal issues.
  4. Practice New Skills: We’ll practice these new skills in a supportive environment, helping you feel more confident in your interactions with others.
  5. Evaluate Progress: We’ll regularly review your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

IPT is a structured and focused therapy. The goal is to help you improve your relationships and, in turn, enhance your mental health and overall well-being.