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