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