What Is Interpersonal Therapy?
Interpersonal therapy (IPT) is a structured, time-limited approach to individual therapy that focuses on improving how you relate to others and manage life’s everyday interactions. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by conflict, grief, social anxiety, or isolation, IPT can help you understand how your relationships affect your emotional well-being. This therapy supports you in developing healthier communication, resolving past or present conflicts, and building stronger connections. Whether you’re struggling with loss, role changes, or feeling alone, interpersonal therapy provides a calm and supportive space to feel heard and to grow emotionally—step by step.
Interpersonal therapy is centered on the idea that our emotional health is closely tied to our relationships. During individual therapy sessions, a therapist helps you explore how past and current relationships impact your mood, behavior, and self-esteem. Sessions are focused and goal-oriented, typically addressing one or two key problem areas such as grief, role transitions, or interpersonal disputes.
Interpersonal therapy is often a good fit for individuals navigating stress related to their relationships or social roles. This may include:
Here’s what you can expect from the interpersonal therapy process at Transformation Health, explained in four simple steps:
You’ll start with a private, one-on-one meeting to discuss what’s been bothering you. Your therapist will gently guide the conversation to understand your concerns and goals better.
You and your therapist will identify key relationship patterns or stress points and choose a focus area for your sessions. This stage helps create a clear, supportive plan for your therapy journey.
 Over a series of sessions, you’ll explore feelings, interactions, and role dynamics. You’ll learn practical interpersonal therapy techniques to help improve your communication and emotional understanding.
As therapy progresses, you’ll reflect on what’s changed, what skills you’ve gained, and how to apply them. Your therapist will help you feel equipped to continue your growth beyond your sessions.
At Transformation Health, we understand how deeply our relationships affect our emotional well-being. Our therapists take the time to listen with care, tailoring each session to your unique needs. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all care—your journey is yours, and we’re here to support it every step. With a warm, welcoming environment and a strong reputation in the Virginia Beach community, our practice offers trusted, compassionate individual therapy designed to make a real difference in your everyday life.
Personalized, goal-oriented individual therapy sessions
Experienced therapists trained in IPT interpersonal therapy
A calm, confidential setting designed for emotional safety
Support that continues beyond sessions when needed
Most interpersonal therapy (IPT) programs last 12 to 16 weekly sessions. However, the length can vary depending on your goals and needs. Your therapist will discuss this with you during your initial sessions.
Sessions focus on your current relationships and how they affect your emotional well-being. You’ll work with your therapist to identify challenges, develop communication strategies, and explore new ways to connect with others more positively.
Many interpersonal therapy techniques are practical and easy to apply in daily life. These may include strategies for handling conflict, expressing feelings clearly, or navigating difficult transitions. The goal is to help you feel more confident and connected in real-world situations.
If you’re ready to explore the benefits of interpersonal therapy and how it can support your growth through individual therapy, our team is here to walk with you—one session at a time. Contact Transformation Health in Virginia Beach today to begin interpersonal therapy.
Virginia Beach Office:
508 South Independence Blvd Ste. 200 Virginia Beach, VA 23452
tel: 757-490-6463