Interpersonal Therapy(IPT)
Showing plain-language explanations suitable for anyone.
Overview
Interpersonal Therapy is a time-limited, structured therapy focusing on the link between mood and current interpersonal relationships. It helps people improve communication, resolve relational difficulties, and process losses or life transitions.
What this therapy focuses on
Improving communication, resolving role disputes, processing grief and loss, and managing life transitions. IPT identifies one or two key interpersonal problem areas and works on them directly.
What sessions are usually like
Session length: 50 minutes
Frequency: Weekly
Time-limited: Yes (typically 12–16 sessions)
Three phases: beginning (formulation), middle (working on problem areas), end (consolidation)
Session profile
Common uses and suitability
What problems it is commonly used for
Who this therapy may suit best
- People whose depression is linked to interpersonal difficulties
- Those going through grief, role transitions, or relationship conflicts
- People who prefer a relational focus without deep historical exploration
When it may need adapting or may not be suitable
- Active psychosis
- Where interpersonal factors are not central to the presentation
- Severe personality pathology may require modified approaches
Where this therapy may not be enough
IPT is designed primarily for depression in an interpersonal context. It may not be sufficient for conditions where interpersonal factors are not central (e.g., specific phobias, OCD).
What happens in therapy
Interpersonal Inventory
A detailed review of your important relationships to understand how they affect your mood.
Communication Analysis
Looking at specific conversations in detail to find where communication breaks down and how to improve it.
Role Play
Practising new ways of communicating in session before trying them in real life.
Evidence Base
Guideline support
Strong for depression. NICE NG222 recommends IPT for depression. APA guidelines also support IPT.
Strength of evidence
Strong for depression, particularly comparable effectiveness to CBT in multiple trials. Strong evidence for perinatal depression.
Limitations
Evidence base is narrower than CBT (fewer conditions studied). Fewer trained therapists available in many settings.
Evidence claims by condition
IPT is a recommended treatment for depression, working on the relationship difficulties that maintain low mood.
Resources & Printables
For Adults
For Teenagers (12–17)
For Parents & Caregivers
For Professionals
Practitioner & Training Notes
Typical professional background
Clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists with IPT training.
Recognised training routes
IPT training through APT and equivalent bodies. Includes Foundation and Practitioner levels with supervised practice.
Registration considerations
APT provides IPT accreditation (UK). International IPT societies exist.
Source Registry
Link and cite; do not reproduce large sections verbatim.
Link and paraphrase.
Last evidence review: January 2026. All sources are verified and checked on a scheduled cadence.