Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Below are links to descriptions of common types of therapy that may help you match your patient with an effective treatment.
Now that you have learned about several types of professional psychological therapies, go on to the next section to learn about behavioral treatments patients can undertake on their own.
(jan.tito, Vincent van Gogh, flickr. CC: BY-SA 2.0. Obtained on June 22, 2009.)
IPT is another short-term therapy focusing on the role of human interaction in the development and recurrence of depression. Patients learn different ways of interacting and negotiating with others by taking inventory of their relationships, brainstorming, and role playing new ways of behaving. IPT has been proven successful in both treating and preventing the recurrence of depression.
Patients experiencing difficulty with interpersonal relationships gain particular benefit from IPT. It may also be helpful for patients who do not like the "homework" burden of CBT.
After a limited number of sessions, patients can expect to see a lift in their mood as well as a decrease in the amount of conflict they experience at work and at home. Patients may also see an increase in their ability to tolerate and learn from that conflict.
Below, is a sample agenda for a full 16-week IPT course (Morris).
