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