Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT)
IPT (interpersonal psychotherapy) is a time limited psychotherapy which highlights the importance of social roles and relationships, in relation to psychological wellbeing.
What is IPT?
It usually takes place over sixteen to twenty weekly sessions and aims to help you identify the interpersonal situations , events or patterns which are most closely associated with your current difficulties, and to support you in making the changes that will help to alleviate psychological symptoms or stress.
The overall aim of IPT is to help you understand how your psychological symptoms and/or emotional experiences are linked to interpersonal situations, and at the same time to identify the impact these experiences may be having upon your interpersonal relationships and your ability to get what you need from other people. IPT is a change oriented yet supportive therapy which enables improvements in interpersonal functioning within important relationships. It also considers the role of your wider social network and how you can make the most of available help and support from within existing relationships or by developing new social connections.
What is talked about in IPT?
The first few sessions are spent gathering information and building a detailed picture of the symptoms and/or difficulties you are experiencing. The main focus of discussions with the therapist will be on the ‘here and now’ rather than the past. However, the therapist will also want to spend some time discussing past relationships and experiences, which may help with gaining an understanding of your current situation. The therapist will also aim to build a picture of your current relationships and how fluctuations in your mood are linked to interpersonal events. They will then be able to share their understanding with you and help you decide on a focus area to provide the structure for the remainder of the sessions.
What are the main focus areas in IPT?
In IPT there are several ‘focus areas’ to select from . These are based on the types of social and interpersonal situations which have been found to be the most stressful for people and are often associated with the development of problems such as depression and anxiety. Your therapist will work with you to select a focus area that is most relevant to your current difficulties and will also help you to think about your own specific goals for the therapy. The four main focus areas are:-
– Interpersonal sensitivities: A history of experiencing recurring difficulties in forming or maintaining relationships with other people
– Interpersonal dispute: An unresolved conflict often involving a mismatch of expectations
– Role transition: A significant life change e.g. beginning or ending of a job or a relationship, an illness, a change of home
– Grief: Unresolved grief following the loss of a significant person
How does IPT work?
IPT is a time-limited therapy and works by keeping to the agreed focus and helping you to make the interpersonal changes that are likely to have the most impact on your current difficulties. Towards the end of the therapy you will be able to review the understanding you have gained and any positive changes you have been able to make. Your therapist will also spend some time thinking with you about how you can continue with these gains after the therapy has concluded.
What is the evidence for IPT?
IPT has been extensively researched and has been found to be helpful for a wide range of clients and presenting problems. It is currently recommended by NICE (National Institute for Health & Care Excellence) as a therapy for depression and other mental health conditions.
What happens during interpersonal psychotherapy?
Interpersonal psychotherapy is a time-limited form of therapy that focuses on interpersonal relationships. It’s rooted in the belief that emotional distress can be understood as a consequence of difficulties in communication.
The first meeting
During your first session, your therapist will explore your history and past interpersonal relationships to identify any patterns that may be contributing to your current difficulties. This first meeting is also an opportunity for you to ask as many questions as you see fit to determine if the relationship feels safe to you. It’s important to take your time and reflect on how you feel after the session.
Confidentiality in IPT
The client-therapist relationship is built on trust, and confidentiality is a crucial aspect of that trust. Integrative psychotherapy respects the confidentiality of clients and therapists will adhere to the professional ethical guidelines. Exceptions may occur when there is a risk of harm to the client or others.
The frame
Within therapy, the frame refers to the boundaries or the therapeutic relationship. This structure provides a safe and consistent environment for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. The frame also includes the length and frequency of the sessions, the fee structure, and the therapist’s approach to communication and interaction.
Ongoing sessions
Ongoing sessions may be recommended in order to ensure that the client continues to make progress in their interpersonal functioning. Many clients often also choose to continue with their sessions as they begin to see benefits of the therapy. However, this will depend on the individual client and their specific needs.
IPT is currently offered by Rebecca Mead.
If you are unsure of the type of therapy you need, you can search for a therapist here.
