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