Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescents
A developmentally adapted version of interpersonal psychotherapy for depressed adolescents, addressing relationship changes common to teenage life.
What Is Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescents?
Interpersonal psychotherapy for adolescents is a developmentally adapted version of interpersonal psychotherapy designed specifically for depressed adolescents, addressing relationship issues especially relevant to teenage life, such as peer pressure, family relationship changes, and single-parent family dynamics.
How It Works
This adaptation applies the core interpersonal psychotherapy model, connecting mood symptoms to specific interpersonal problem areas, while incorporating developmentally appropriate content and often involving parents in parts of treatment. This description uses original explanatory language.
What Happens During Therapy?
Sessions address the adolescent’s primary interpersonal problem area using age-appropriate language and examples, with some models including parent sessions to support communication and understanding at home.
Evidence and Effectiveness
Research supports interpersonal psychotherapy for adolescents in reducing depressive symptoms in teenagers, with evidence from randomized controlled trials, including in school-based settings.
Who May Benefit?
Interpersonal psychotherapy for adolescents may be considered for teenagers experiencing depression connected to relationship changes, conflicts, or transitions common to adolescence.
Limitations and Considerations
This approach is specifically adapted for adolescents and may be less applicable for younger children or adults, for whom other developmentally appropriate treatments are more suitable.
Finding a Qualified Therapist
Interpersonal psychotherapy for adolescents is delivered by psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and other mental health professionals trained in this adapted model.
How Long Does Therapy Take?
Interpersonal psychotherapy for adolescents is typically delivered over approximately 12 to 16 sessions, similar to the adult model.
Therapy vs. Medication
For adolescent depression, this therapy and medication are not necessarily competing options and may be used alone or in combination, in consultation with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional.
What Conditions Is It Used For?
Related Therapy Types
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychological Association. Clinical Practice Guidelines.
- American Psychiatric Association. Practice Guidelines.
- National Institute of Mental Health. Psychotherapies.