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