Comparison Of Supportive And Interpersonal Psychotherapy ✓ Solved

Comparison Of Supportive And Interpersonal Psychotherapieswalden Univ

Psychotherapy is a general term used to refer to the treatment given to patients based on psychological principles. There are various forms of therapies, which are applied based on the patient's specific mental or emotional problem. In this regard, this paper gives a brief comparison of two common forms of psychotherapy: supportive and interpersonal. Supportive psychotherapy refers to a form of treatment, which applies direct techniques to improve an individual’s adaptive skills, ego functions, and self-esteem (Pinsker, 2014).

Interpersonal psychotherapy is an evidence-based approach that emphasizes the patient's relationships when treating him/her for his/her psychological problems (Weissman, Markowitz, & Klerman, 2008). It will reveal the similarities and differences between the two and recommend the more suitable therapeutic approach.

Similarities

Both of the psychotherapies are effective in the reduction of depression symptoms in patients compared to other standard forms of care. They are both effective in handling different patient groups regardless of demographics such as age, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic background. Apart from depression, both techniques are also effective in handling phobias.

The clients are often encouraged to discuss their problems and share their feelings in both psychotherapies. Finally, both psychotherapies are grounded on psychiatric principles and are evidence-based practices. They require qualified personnel to effectively apply them in treating patients.

Differences

There are three major differences between these forms of psychotherapy. First, supportive psychotherapy emphasizes the client alone. The therapist makes use of practical approaches to handle the client’s distress. The therapist ensures the patient has an emotional outlet to express him/herself through the use of listening, encouraging, comforting, and reassuring (Pinsker, 2014).

In contrast, interpersonal psychotherapy focuses on the client and his/her close relationships, such as family and friends. The therapist tries to solve the patient’s problems by improving how he/she interacts with the people around him/her (Weissman, Markowitz, & Klerman, 2008). The idea is to eradicate or minimize the distress by enhancing the client’s social functioning.

Second, supportive psychotherapy focuses on the client’s limitations. For instance, the therapist considers the client’s native ability, personality issues, and challenges tied to life circumstances (Pinsker, 2014). The therapist then crafts a way of developing the client’s adaptive capacities to handle these limitations. Winston, Rosenthal, & Roberts (2019) assert that the therapist should set realistic goals when treating the patient. In contrast, interpersonal psychotherapy concentrates on relationship deficits, such as unfulfilling relationships or social isolation, and works to improve these areas (Weissman, Markowitz, & Klerman, 2008).

Finally, supportive psychotherapy targets specific depressive symptoms, while interpersonal psychotherapy addresses maladaptive behaviors and thoughts related to interpersonal relationships. These differences can influence the choice of therapy depending on the patient's root issues and available support systems.

Recommendation

Based on current evidence, interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is often preferred over supportive psychotherapy. Cuijpers et al. (2016) highlight that IPT effectively treats current depression and can prevent future episodes. Given that humans are inherently social beings, many mental health problems stem from interpersonal difficulties. Therefore, addressing relationship issues typically enhances overall well-being.

Moreover, involving friends and family during therapy sessions can provide additional support, empowering the patient to feel less isolated and more motivated during treatment (Markowitz et al., 2015). The social support derived from close relationships can facilitate better outcomes and foster sustainable improvements in mental health (Holden, 2014).

Conclusion/Summary

In summary, this comparison shows that supportive psychotherapy concentrates on the individual’s internal resources and coping mechanisms, whereas interpersonal psychotherapy emphasizes relationship dynamics and social functioning. While both modalities are effective, IPT’s focus on social relationships and support systems offers distinct advantages, especially for depression and related disorders. Mental health clinicians should consider the patient's specific needs, root causes of distress, and available support networks when selecting the most appropriate therapeutic approach.

References

• Cuijpers, P., Donker, T., Weissman, M. M., Ravitz, P., & Cristea, I. A. (2016). Interpersonal psychotherapy for mental health problems: a comprehensive meta-analysis. American Journal of Psychiatry, 173(7), 672–681.
• Holden, R. R. (2014). Social support and mental health. In Handbook of mental health and social support (pp. 39-52). Springer, Boston, MA.
• Markowitz, J., et al. (2015). A review of interpersonal psychotherapy for depression. Psychology Research and Behavior Management, 8, 81–92.
• Pinsker, H. (2014). A primer of supportive psychotherapy. Routledge.
• Winston, A., Rosenthal, R. N., & Roberts, L. W. (2019). Learning supportive psychotherapy: An illustrated guide. American Psychiatric Publishing.
• Weissman, M. M., Markowitz, J. C., & Klerman, G. (2008). Comprehensive guide to interpersonal psychotherapy. Basic Books.
• Cuijpers, P., et al. (2016). The efficacy of interpersonal psychotherapy: Meta-analytic review. Journal of Affective Disorders, 189, 460-470.
• Winston, A., et al. (2019). Learning supportive psychotherapy: An illustrated guide. American Psychiatric Publishing.
• Markowitz, J., et al. (2015). A review of interpersonal psychotherapy for depression. Psychology Research and Behavior Management, 8, 81–92.
• Winston, A., Rosenthal, R. N., & Roberts, L. W. (2019). Learning supportive psychotherapy: An illustrated guide. American Psychiatric Publishing.