[Interpersonal Therapy: a brief and focal model]

Braz J Psychiatry. 2004 Jun;26(2):124-30. doi: 10.1590/s1516-44462004000200010. Epub 2004 Oct 27.
[Article in Portuguese]

Abstract

Psychotherapy is a particular form of treatment in Psychiatry. Its use is widespread and has many different approaches.

Objective: In this article, the author makes some considerations about Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), a brief and focal psychotherapy. Initially created to treat depression, other researchers had successfully increase its spectrum. It could be divided in three phases. Initial, when the therapist makes the diagnosis of the disorder and also the interpersonal problematic is pointed out; the patient received a sick role. Intermediary when the focus is treated, and the final phase when the therapist encourages the patient to recognize and consolidate gains and prepare the patient to use it in the future.

Methods: It is stressed that IPT is a testable form of psychotherapy and the scientific evidences of its efficacy are showed.

Conclusions: The results assure that IPT is an efficient form of psychotherapy for depression with a great acceptability from the patients.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Depression / therapy*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations*
  • Psychotherapy, Brief / methods*