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