Understanding Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) — A Guide for PLAB 2/UKMLA-CPSA Candidates
- Ann Augustin
- Jun 23
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 26
When preparing for PLAB 2, especially as an international medical graduate (IMG), it's vital to understand the psychological therapies recommended in the UK. One of the lesser-known but frequently tested therapies in PLAB 2 scenarios is Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
Whether you're dealing with a scenario on work-related stress, bereavement, or relationship breakdowns, knowing when and how to offer IPT can earn you marks for appropriate management, psychosocial support, and holistic care.
📌 What is IPT?
Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) is a structured, time-limited therapy that focuses on improving a person’s relationships and social functioning to help reduce their psychological symptoms—especially depression.
It’s particularly useful when the patient's distress is connected to:
Loss of a loved one (bereavement)
Conflict or changes in relationships
Role transitions (like job loss, retirement, or becoming a parent)
Social isolation or interpersonal deficits
🆚 IPT vs CBT — What's the Difference?
💡 Example: A woman struggling after her husband passed away 6 months ago and now feels isolated? → IPT would be appropriate.
⏳ How Long Does IPT Last?
IPT is short-term, typically:
12–16 sessions (over 3–4 months)
Usually offered in the community setting via the IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies) service
For PLAB 2, you can mention:
"There's a talking therapy called Interpersonal Psychotherapy that focuses on the emotional impact of your recent experiences and how they're affecting your relationships. It usually runs over 12–16 sessions."
🧩 What Are the Core Components of IPT?
There are 4 main focus areas in IPT:
Grief and loss – e.g. after the death of a loved one
Interpersonal disputes – ongoing or unresolved conflicts
Role transitions – changes in life situation, e.g. divorce or retirement
Interpersonal deficits – feelings of isolation, loneliness, or lack of close relationships
As a PLAB 2 candidate, you might be asked to identify which area is most relevant to the patient and suggest IPT accordingly.
📍 When to Offer IPT in PLAB 2?
✅ Use IPT for:
Mild to moderate depression, especially related to recent life events
Postpartum emotional struggles
Workplace stress from interpersonal conflict
Relationship breakdown causing emotional distress
Prolonged grief when it interferes with functioning
❌ Avoid IPT when:
The patient needs emergency psychiatric help (e.g., suicidal ideation with intent)
The primary issue is maladaptive thoughts or avoidance behaviours → Offer CBT
There is severe psychosis or mania → Refer to psychiatric services
💬 Phrases You Can Use in PLAB 2 Scenarios
🔹 “There’s a form of therapy called Interpersonal Psychotherapy that focuses on how your recent experiences have affected your emotions and relationships.”
🔹 “It helps people who are going through difficult transitions—like job changes, breakups, or losing someone close.”
🔹 “It’s a structured therapy lasting about 12–16 sessions, and you’d be referred to a trained therapist for this.”
🧠 High-Yield Notes for PLAB 2
IPT is recommended by NICE for depression in certain contexts
Duration: 12–16 sessions
Focus: Relationships, grief, role changes
Offered via IAPT in the UK
Not the first-line for panic disorder, OCD, or psychosis
Different from CBT – more emotional and relational focus
Final Tip 📝
As a PLAB 2 candidate, showing empathy, understanding patient context, and offering the right therapy with a short explanation can boost your marks in both management and communication domains.
If you're unsure, remember:
CBT = when thoughts/behaviours are the issueIPT = when relationships/life transitions are the issue
📚 References:
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