INTERPERSONAL PSYCHOTHERAPY

CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) is the most commonly known therapy, and for good reason, it has been backed by years of research and has shown to be effective for a variety of mental health concerns. That being said there are many other forms of therapy that are just as, if not more, effective. Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) was developed by Gerald Klerman and Myrna Weissman in the 1970’s along the same time as CBT. Both treatments were shown to be effective in the treatment of depression and have also shown efficacy in other treatment areas.

Interpersonal psychotherapy looks at how mental health is affected by relationships and how relationships are affected by mental health. Even though relationship issues may not be the cause of depression, it can one of the most prevalent symptoms in the early stages of relationships. The improvement in relationships can create a support network that can will help the client go through the recovery process. There are four major goal areas that IPT can focus on: role transitions, interpersonal conflict, grief, and loneliness.

Along with depression IPT has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety, eating-disorders, substance abuse, and mood disorders. IPT is generally a short term therapy and is structured for 12-14 sessions.