Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) addresses academic problems and skills through its strong evidence base: most academic problems and skills is connected to relationship problems, and improving relationships improves academic problems and skills.
The Four IPT Focus Areas for Academic Problems and Skills
IPT targets one of four interpersonal problem areas that typically accompany academic problems and skills:
- Grief: Loss and bereavement contributing to academic problems and skills
- Role disputes: Conflicts in important relationships driving academic problems and skills
- Role transitions: Life changes creating adjustment-related academic problems and skills
- Interpersonal deficits: Limited social skills or relationships sustaining academic problems and skills
IPT vs. CBT for Academic Problems and Skills
While CBT targets thoughts and behaviors, IPT targets relationships and communication. Both are highly effective for academic problems and skills — the best choice depends on the primary driver.
What IPT for Academic Problems and Skills Looks Like
IPT for academic problems and skills typically runs 12-20 sessions, with early sessions identifying the interpersonal focus area, middle sessions working on it, and later sessions consolidating gains.