Given the large number of therapeutic techniques and methods available today, for some it might be somewhat complicated to keep the track of every novelty that gets introduced. Still, this is quite an important aspect, for it is these novelty discoveries that fortify a specific therapeutic approach and increase its effectiveness. One such therapeutic approach that has been given quite a lot of attention in recent times is the Interpersonal Therapy. Since details matter the most to the greatest majority of people, having this specific therapeutic technique in mind, the most important characteristics one should know about are the following:
Duration of each session is one hour on a weekly basis and it lasts for twelve to sixteen weeks in total. This period tends to be prolonged in case depression is more severe in nature. The extension spans over the period of another four or more weeks, until the person in question makes notable progress.
The initial couple of sessions (period is one to three weeks) are aimed at assessment of depression, acquainting the person in question with the basic of this therapy and the process itself, as well as pinpointing distinct interpersonal issues that one comes in conflict with. In addition, the therapist and the person being treated make up a list of the person's interpersonal issues, which are then evaluated and ranked for the purpose of determining which of these need immediate attention.
The following sessions (eight to be more precise) are mostly centered and concentrated on dealing with the aforementioned issues, i.e. comprehending them better, searching for possible beneficial ways to alter them, and ultimately apply those alterations for the purpose of achieving a favorable end result. In the course of this period, therapists tend to employ quite a number of different methods such as the following – clarification (to aid one in recognizing and transcending any problematic issues and stances that one might have had in the past), supportive listening, role play, communication analysis, encouragement of affect, to name but a few of the most distinct, beneficial and effective ones.
These subsequent sessions have as their primary goal addressing the previously discovered problematic issues for the purpose of more effective treatment. Also, given the fact that the termination of the therapy as such is most often viewed as a complete loss by the person being treated, this person is asked to ponder about on what such a loss would mean to him/her and what the possible consequences might be. The underlying idea is that a person being treated should, and will in this manner become to a far greater extent aware of the ability he/she possesses, which is crucial for dealing with the interpersonal issues in a most satisfactory manner.
Your thoughts on this
Loading...