IPT for Depression – Session Template

**Phase 1: Initial (Sessions 1–3)** **Goals:** Symptom review, interpersonal inventory, psychoeducation, identify problem area. **Presenting Concerns / Symptoms:** Patient reports feeling persistently sad, experiencing low energy, difficulty concentrating, and withdrawing from social activities. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) **Psychoeducation Provided:** Discussed depression as a treatable illness, explaining the interplay of biological, psychosocial, and interpersonal factors. Normalised the patient's experience and explained the cyclical nature of depression. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) **Interpersonal Inventory:** Key relationships explored: close relationship with partner, strained relationship with mother, limited contact with friends. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) Observed relationship patterns: conflict with mother, feelings of isolation. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) **Problem Area Identified:** Role Dispute (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) **Agreed Goals for Therapy:** Reduce depressive symptoms, improve communication with partner, and address conflict with mother. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) --- **Phase 2: Middle (Sessions 4–10/12)** **Goals:** Focus on the identified problem area, build interpersonal skills, symptom relief. **Session Focus:** Explored the patient's role in the family and the impact of the role dispute with her mother on her mood. Discussed specific instances of conflict and the patient's emotional responses. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) **Problem Area Work:** Role-playing scenarios to practice assertive communication with her mother. Explored the patient's feelings of guilt and resentment. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) **Interpersonal Techniques Used:** Communication analysis, role play, exploration of affect, encouraging expression of feelings, linking mood with interpersonal events. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) **Patient Response & Progress:** Patient reported feeling more confident in her ability to communicate with her mother. She also reported a slight improvement in her mood and energy levels. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) **Homework / Between-Session Tasks:** Practice assertive communication techniques with her mother and journal about her feelings. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) --- **Phase 3: Termination (Final 2 sessions)** **Goals:** Consolidate gains, plan for relapse prevention, review progress. **Review of Progress:** Changes in symptoms: Patient reports a significant reduction in sadness and an increase in energy levels. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) Improvements in interpersonal functioning: Patient reports improved communication with her partner and a better understanding of her relationship with her mother. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) **Relapse Prevention:** Early warning signs: Increased sadness, loss of interest in activities, and social withdrawal. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) Coping strategies: Continue practicing assertive communication, engage in regular exercise, and maintain social connections. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) Crisis plan in place: yes (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) **Termination Discussion:** Reviewed the progress made throughout therapy. Discussed the patient's ability to manage her symptoms and maintain healthy relationships. Encouraged the patient to continue using the skills she has learned. Referred the patient to a local support group. (Only include if explicitly mentioned in the transcript or clinical note, otherwise omit completely.) Date: 1 November 2024