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