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