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