What Is IPT?

Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) is a structured, evidence-based therapy that focuses on improving your relationships and social functioning as a way of reducing psychological symptoms. It is based on the premise that our relationships and life events have a profound impact on our mental health — and that by addressing interpersonal difficulties, we can improve how we feel.

IPT is recommended by NICE as a treatment for depression and has strong evidence for other conditions including eating disorders and anxiety.

How It Works

IPT focuses on four key interpersonal areas:

• Grief: Processing unresolved loss
• Role disputes: Navigating conflicts in significant relationships
• Role transitions: Adapting to major life changes (new job, parenthood, retirement)
• Interpersonal deficits: Building skills for forming and maintaining relationships

Together, we identify which interpersonal area is most connected to your current difficulties and work to develop new ways of communicating, relating, and managing emotions within your relationships.

What IPT Can Help With

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Eating disorders
• Grief and bereavement
• Relationship conflict
• Social isolation
• Adjustment to life changes

What to Expect

IPT is typically a time-limited therapy (12-16 sessions). Sessions focus on your current relationships and social interactions rather than delving deeply into the past. It is practical, collaborative, and focused on building skills that improve your connections with others.