Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) is usually a time-limited course of psychotherapy lasting on average weekly for 12-16 weeks to treat depression. Psychoanalysis typically is a long-term course of therapy meeting multiple times weekly. Rather than focusing on a patient’s internal struggles as the root of the depressive symptoms as in psychoanalysis, IPT focuses on improving the relationship conflicts which are assumed to be the underlying cause. The theory behind IPT believes that a relationship between problematic relationships or life events is associated with current mood symptoms, and IPT treatment should result in symptom reduction and mood improvement. https://www.interpersonalpsychotherapy.org/ipt-basics/key-ipt-strategies/