The length of interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) depends on several factors, such as the severity and type of depression, your specific goals, and how you respond to treatment.
It generally goes like this:
- Short-term IPT typically lasts 12 to 16 weekly sessions (about 3 to 4 months).
This is the standard format used in most clinical trials for major depressive disorder (MDD).
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- In milder cases, fewer sessions (as few as 8–10) might be enough.
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- For more complex or chronic depression, or if you’re dealing with ongoing interpersonal stress, extended IPT (beyond 16 sessions) might be recommended.
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- Sessions might be monthly or less frequent and continue for a year or more if you’re using IPT as maintenance therapy to prevent relapse.
- A few things that influence the length:
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- Chronic vs. acute depression
Chronic depression often needs longer therapy.
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- Co-occurring issues
It might take longer if you’re also dealing with grief, trauma, or relationship problems.
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- Therapeutic goals
IPT focuses on things like role transitions (divorce, job loss), grief, interpersonal disputes, or social skills.
The more complex the issue, the more time it generally takes.
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- Response rate
If you’re improving steadily, you might not need as many sessions.
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