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