What Is Dynamic Interpersonal Therapy?

What Is Interpersonal Therapy?

Interpersonal therapy, also known as dynamic interpersonal therapy or DIT for short, is a type of psychotherapy. It focuses on the interpersonal relationships and social roles of patients to help them improve their mental health.

Dynamic interpersonal therapy is based on the premise that psychological symptoms, such as depression, are often a response to difficulties in relationships. It was initially developed in the 1970s by Gerald Klerman and Myrna Weissman for the treatment of depression.

While DIT treats depression, it has been adapted for other mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and bipolar disorder. It’s an evidence-based treatment, meaning that it occurs in research studies and is effective for certain conditions.

What are the Different Types of Interpersonal Therapy?

Dynamic Interpersonal therapy (DIT) is a common, structured, and time-limited form of psychotherapy that focuses on addressing current problems and improving interpersonal relationships.

The primary types of DIT include:

• • Standard Interpersonal Therapy (DIT) —  This is the basic form of DIT that treats depression. It focuses on four problem areas: grief, role disputes, role transitions, and interpersonal deficits.

• • Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) — This form of DIT treats bipolar disorder. It combines traditional DIT techniques with techniques to help patients strengthen their routines and social rhythms, aiming to prevent the onset of manic and depressive episodes.

• • Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescents (DIT-A) —  This variant of DIT treats depression in adolescents. It focuses on the same four problem areas as standard DIT but with modifications suitable for this age group.

• • Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Postpartum Depression (DIT-P) — This form of DIT focuses specifically on postpartum depression. It helps new mothers navigate the significant life changes, role transitions, and interpersonal disputes that can trigger or worsen postpartum depression.

• • Brief Interpersonal Psychotherapy (DIT-B) —  This version of DIT is a short-term, crisis-focused treatment. It treats a variety of disorders and helps in situations where longer-term therapy isn’t feasible, such as in emergency rooms or inpatient psychiatric units.

• • Group Interpersonal Psychotherapy (DIT-G) —  This type of DIT happens in a group setting. It allows participants to learn from and support each other. It can be effective for a variety of conditions, including depression, eating disorders, and substance abuse.

• • Interpersonal Therapy for Eating Disorders (DIT-ED) —  This is a specific form of DIT that treats eating disorders. It focuses on interpersonal issues that can contribute to these conditions.

• • Interpersonal Therapy for PTSD (DIT-PTSD) —  This approach treats individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder. It focuses on interpersonal conflicts, role transitions, and other issues that might contribute to PTSD symptoms.

Please note that these types of DIT might vary in the length and number of sessions, the specifics of the therapeutic techniques used, and the precise focus of the therapy, depending on the specific needs of the individual or group.

Remember that while DIT is often used for conditions like depression and anxiety, it can also be beneficial for a range of other mental health issues, including bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and more. It’s always important to consult with a mental health professional to determine the best therapy type for your individual needs.