Interpersonal therapy, or interpersonal psychotherapy, (IPT) is a time-limited, highly structured form of psychotherapy (talk therapy). IPT typically consists of 12–16 hour-long sessions with a trained therapist. Sessions occur in one-on-one or group settings. Along with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), IPT is the psychotherapy most commonly recommended for treating depression. Originally developed as a brief treatment for depression, IPT has been adapted to treat many other mental health disorders. IPT differs from other types of psychotherapy in its focus on an individual’s current social relationships and interactions.

PT was initially developed in the 1970s by psychiatrist Gerald Klerman, researcher Dr. Myrna Weissman, and colleagues as a treatment for major depression in adults. It is based on American psychiatrist Harry Stack Sullivan’s interpersonal theory—the idea that interpersonal relationships are the primary driving force in human life. Since its introduction, researchers have adapted IPT for other mental health disorders and for use in teens and children. IPT originally was used in research studies but has since moved into clinical practice. IPT was initially developed as a time-limited treatment for depression, for which several studies have found it effective. IPT is often used in conjunction with antidepressants. The combination of IPT and antidepressants is a more effective treatment for depression than either one of these therapies alone.

Mentalization-based therapy, this type of IPT focuses on understanding your own thoughts, feelings, and desires as well as those of others, and how those thoughts, feelings, and desires affect behavior. Metacognitive interpersonal therapy focuses on understanding the basic social motives underpinning human behavior. It uses these drives and motives as a lens for understanding your own thoughts, feelings, and beliefs as well as the thoughts, feelings, and beliefs of others. Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) is designed to treat bipolar disorder. It emphasizes the importance of regular sleeping and eating schedules as well as social functioning in helping people with bipolar disorder avoid mood episodes and manage their symptoms. APA