Interpersonal Psychotherapy

Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) is a time limited psychotherapy, usually lasting between 12 and 16 sessions which focuses on the interpersonal context and on building interpersonal skills. IPT rests on the belief that interpersonal factors contribute to problems with mood and anxiety. It is distinguished from other forms of therapy in its emphasis on problems of an interpersonal nature. This type of therapy aims to change the person's interpersonal behaviour by fostering improved adaptation to current interpersonal roles and situations. Interpersonal psychotherapy focuses on one of four common problem areas: grief, role transitions, interpersonal disputes, and chronic interpersonal challenges. The effectiveness of IPT is supported through current and ongoing research.