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A Gentle Guide to Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

posted 17th January 2026

Posted 3 weeks ago

By Toni Baker

All Resources Informative

When life feels heavy, relationships often feel harder too. Depression, grief, and major life changes can leave us feeling isolated, misunderstood, or stuck in patterns that don’t serve us. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) is a structured, compassionate approach that focuses on the connections that matter most—because healing often happens in the context of relationships.

This guide is for clients considering therapy. My goal is to help you feel hopeful, reassured, and informed about how IPT works and why it might be right for you.

What Is Interpersonal Therapy?

IPT is a short-term, evidence-based therapy designed to help people improve their mood by improving their relationships and social functioning. It’s based on a simple but powerful idea: our mental health and our relationships are deeply connected.

Rather than focusing only on symptoms, IPT looks at the life situations and relationship patterns that may be contributing to distress. Together, we explore how changes in your relationships—or how you navigate them—can help you feel better and more supported.

What Does IPT Help With?

IPT is often used for:

Depression (including postpartum depression)
Grief and loss
Major life transitions (e.g., divorce, retirement, moving)
Interpersonal conflicts (with partners, family, friends)
Social isolation or role changes

How Does IPT Work?

IPT usually focuses on one or two key areas that feel most relevant to you.

These often include:

Grief - Processing the loss of a loved one and finding ways to adjust while honouring your connection.
Role Transitions  - Navigating big life changes like becoming a parent, changing jobs, or retiring—and coping with the stress they bring.
Interpersonal Disputes -  Addressing ongoing conflicts in relationships and learning healthier ways to communicate and resolve differences.
Interpersonal Deficits- Building confidence and skills to form or strengthen supportive relationships when isolation feels overwhelming.

What Makes IPT Different?

It’s time-limited and focused. It often lasts 12–16 sessions, with clear goals and structure.
It’s practical. You’ll learn communication strategies and problem-solving skills you can use right away.
It’s collaborative. We work together to identify patterns and create solutions that fit your life.
*It’s compassionate. It doesn’t blame—it helps you understand and improve your relationships in a safe, supportive space.

Common Concerns—Answered

“Will IPT make me talk about things I’m not ready for?”  No. IPT is paced and collaborative. You choose what feels safe to share, and we focus on what matters most to you.
“Is IPT only about relationships?”" IPT looks at relationships because they affect mood—but it’s really about helping you feel better and more connected.
“Does IPT take years?”  IPT is usually short-term (weeks to a few months), though everyone’s journey is unique.

Practical Tips You Can Try Now

Here are a few gentle strategies inspired by IPTprinciples:

1. Name the Feeling, Name the Need
When you feel upset, pause and ask: What am I feeling? What do I need right now? This helps you communicate clearly.
2. Use “I” Statements
 Instead of “You never listen,” try “I feel unheard when…” This reduces blame and invites understanding.
3. Reach Out Intentionally
Make one small connection today—a text to a friend, a short call, or a walk with someone you trust.
4. Plan for Transitions
 If you’re facing a big change, write down what support you’ll need and who can help. Share this with someone close.

What an IPT Journey Might Look Like

Sessions 1–3: Understanding Your Story.
 We explore your symptoms, relationships, and life changes.
Sessions 4–10: Building Skills & Making Changes.
 You practice communication strategies and problem-solving in real-life situations.
Sessions 11–16: Consolidating & Planning Ahead.
 We review progress and create a plan for maintaining gains.

You Deserve Connection and Support

Feeling low or disconnected doesn’t mean you’re broken—it means you’re human. IPT helps you strengthen the relationships that matter most and build new ones where needed. You don’t have to do this alone.