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