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