An Overview of Interpersonal Therapy - History, Four Pillars, and Its Implications for Social Work Practice (FPS-CPD)

Capability Levels: Emerging, Evolving, Established

This will be a 3.5 hour workshop, specifically on an overview of Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) in context and it’s overlap in other core theories that inform our practice.

IPT is an approved FPS model under Medicare. IPT is evidence-based, historically canvassed in the 1970’s by a USA Social Worker Dr Myrna Weissman, partnered with Psychiatrist Dr Gerald Klerman in a control study with subsequent empirical research. IPT looks at environmental factors, specifically in the context of interpersonal relationships, not just intimate relationships. The model encapsulates human relationships and interactions within systems. There are four pillars to IPT which include grief, role disputes, role transitions and interpersonal deficits.

IPT is perhaps a less utilised approach in the sector in comparison to other models such as CBT. Using models in isolation that do not include looking at Eco-Systems will have shortfalls in treatment and outcomes, just as using IPT in isolation will have its own shortfalls too. IPT has been found to be effective with other models of therapy within a multifaceted approach. IPT was initially designed to be a short-term approach to treat major depressive disorder, however, it was quickly found efficacious in treatment of eating disorders. IPT is conducive with other core Social Work models such as Eco-Systems theory. It is a model that should be articulated in our practice. It is evidence based, well researched, time limited and recovery focused making it an efficient and empowering approach in the treatment of Mental Health issues. IPT was founded by a Social Worker. It is important that programs we develop not be biased to one approach, such as CBT and include assessment and support around environmental factors which may be attributing to the presenting issue of the client group.

Who should attend?

This workshop may be of interest to Social Worker’s at any level, however, more so those in Mental Health practice, assessment, counselling, and program development roles.

Any Social Worker supporting people with complex family relationship dynamics, workplace bullying, grief and loss, aging populations, people suffering from disordered eating and mood disorders may find the content helpful in their practice.

Social Workers with an interest in treating Eating Disorders may find the content useful as IPT is one of the approved model’s under a 40 session Medicare Eating Disorder plan.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• Understand the History and Foundations of Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
• Identify and Apply IPT Techniques, including role transitions, grief work, interpersonal disputes, and social skills enhancement that may be impacting on the inner psychological state.
• Assess and Formulate Case Studies Using IPT framework.
• Adapt IPT to Different Populations.

Event Structure:

Introduction (10 minutes)

Learning Session 1: IPT Overview (45 minutes)

• Activity 1: Video + Case study

Learning Session 2: IPT Practical Implications (45 minutes)

• Activity 2: Group discussions

Learning Session 3: Skill Building (45 minutes)

• Activity 3: Methods practice

Conclusion + Q&A (15 minutes)

This Workshop is not recorded, however, you will have access to materials and resources on AASW Online Learning for 4 weeks after the completion of the workshop.

AASW Credentials: Mental Health (FPS); Clinical

FPS Interpersonal Therapy will be incorporated in this workshop and falls under f. Interpersonal Therapy of Medicare schedule (https://www9.health.gov.au/mbs/fullDisplay.cfm?type=note&q=MN.7.4&qt=noteID&criteria=MN%2E7%2E4)

In the event of an audit, it is the member’s responsibility to clearly demonstrate how this FPS training is relevant to the delivery of FPS in their specific work context.