Interpersonal counselling (IPC)
What is IPC?
IPC is a talking therapy for people with depressive symptoms or distress. It is a brief manualised psychological intervention derived from Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) and is recommended by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence for the treatment . It focuses on the relationship problems that affect many people with depression.
How does IPC work?
IPC focuses on the here and now, in particular on the links between interpersonal relationships and depressive symptoms. In early sessions there is a review of relationships and together you look at the most important relationships to you and examine whether these are contributing to the depression. Together you establish a treatment contract and focus on one of four of the following areas
- Important changes you're unhappy about
- Not getting on with someone in your life
- When someone close to you dies
- When it is hard to make or keep friends
Together with your therapist you will work on communication tips and problem solving strategies. You will practice skills helping you to navigate important relationships. By improving relationships people should become less sad and depressive symptoms will be reduced.
IPT sessions and cost
IPT usually involves 6 weekly sessions of 1 hour. Each session has a specific focus and therapy is divided into 3 phases. Each session costs £70
