Finding a therapist who’s specifically trained in interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is a bit more targeted than just looking for a general psychotherapist.

Since IPT is a structured, evidence-based approach, you’ll want someone who’s trained and experienced in using it, not just someone who says they do “talk therapy.”

1. Use reputable online directories
   
   

Start with directories that let you filter by therapy approach:

• • International/English-speaking options:

• • • Psychology Today – Therapist Finder
      • Filter by location, insurance, and “Interpersonal Therapy” under “Types of Therapy.”
    • GoodTherapy.org
      • Search by therapy style and issue (like depression or grief).
    • IPT Institute Therapist Directory
      • Run by the official IPT Institute, this directory lists certified IPT therapists and training programs.

• • If you’re in Europe (especially Belgium):

• • • Look for terms like “interpersoonlijke therapie” in Dutch or “thérapie interpersonnelle” in French.

• • • • Check therapist directories on sites like:
        • Vind-een-psycholoog.be.
        • National psychology or psychotherapy associations (VVKP).

• • • • Ask your GP or psychiatrist for a referral. They often know who’s trained in IPT locally.

2. Look for these credentials or terms
   
   

When reading therapist bios, look for key phrases that confirm IPT training:

• • “Certified in Interpersonal Psychotherapy.”
  • “IPT-trained through the IPT Institute.”
  • “Uses IPT for depression, grief, and life transitions.”
  • “Specialized in short-term relational therapy.”
  • “Completed formal training in IPT or IPT-A (for adolescents).”

Avoid vague mentions like “integrative therapist who includes interpersonal techniques,” since that could mean anything.

You want someone who fully knows the IPT structure and process.

3. Contact the therapist and ask directly

Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions before booking:

You can say something like:

“Hi, I’m looking for a therapist trained in Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) to work on depression related to relationship issues.

Can you confirm if you’ve had specific training in IPT, and how you typically apply it in your sessions?”

This helps you avoid wasting time with someone who doesn’t use the IPT framework.

4. Double-check insurance or affordability
   
   

Once you’ve found a potential match, check:

• • Do they accept your insurance?
  • Do they offer sliding scale fees if you’re paying out of pocket?
  • Do they offer online sessions (particularly important if there are limited IPT therapists nearby)?