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