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Interpersonal Therapy for Perinatal Healing
Today’s conversation is about interpersonal therapy (IPT). You’ll learn what IPT is, how it differs from other therapies, and why it is a validated therapy that is well-suited for the perinatal population. Many more clinicians should seek training in this therapy modality which is full of useful tools and skills. Join us to learn more!
Interpersonal Therapy for Perinatal Healing Show Highlights:
- What is interpersonal therapy (IPT)?
- Why the goal of IPT is to ensure social support—and how this is accomplished
- How IPT can help with specific relationship needs in the perinatal period
- Three main areas of focus in IPT: grief/loss, role transition, and interpersonal disputes
- Examples of how Elyse might work with a couple around role transitions in the perinatal period
- What we should realize about decolonizing mental health and focusing on collaborative approaches of social support within a person’s culture
- How problem-solving and role-playing are done within the IPT model
- How IPT focuses on experiences, goals, and positive communication
- How IPT sessions are structured as a 12-session model with periodic check-ins to follow up
- Where to go for IPT training: IPT Institute
About Elyse Springer, MA-CLP, LMFT, PMH-C
Elyse Springer is a longtime colleague and friend with much knowledge about supporting people in their perinatal mental health. She is a current board member for Postpartum Support International’s California chapter and serves as the Policy and Advocacy Chair. She is an emeritus Governing Council member for Maternal Mental Health NOW; she served an eight-year term and continues to provide ongoing training for the organization. She served as a board member of the national maternal mental health policy and advocacy group 2020 Mom Project from 2014-2019, and subsequently sat on the organization’s clinical advisory panel through 2021. In addition, Elyse is a training faculty and emeritus board member for the national perinatal loss organization Return to Zero: HOPE and training faculty for the paternal perinatal non-profit Love, Dad. Elyse is certified in perinatal mental health, and she is an EMDRIA-approved therapist and consultant, certified in Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) by the IPT Institute, and an IPT supervisor-in-training. She lives and works in Los Angeles, California.
Resources:
Connect with Elyse Springer:
Website: https://elysespringer.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espringermft
Postpartum Support International: https://www.postpartum.net/
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Interpersonal Therapy for Perinatal Healing
Interpersonal therapy (IPT) is increasingly recognized for its effectiveness in the perinatal period, a time marked by significant emotional and psychological changes. Today’s discussion on the “Mom and Mind” podcast, hosted by Dr. Kat, delves deep into how IPT can aid in perinatal healing, featuring insights from Elyse Springer, a seasoned therapist and an advocate for maternal mental health.
Understanding Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Interpersonal therapy is a structured, time-limited form of therapy that primarily focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and alleviating symptoms of mental illness. It emphasizes the connection between the way people interact in their relationships and their psychological state. Elyse Springer, an expert in IPT, outlines that the therapy is particularly tailored to address the nuanced relational dynamics that arise during the perinatal period—before, during, and after childbirth.
The Goals and Benefits of IPT for Perinatal Health
The primary goal of IPT during the perinatal phase is to ensure adequate social support for the mother, which is accomplished by enhancing existing relationships and helping to form new supportive connections. Springer explains that IPT addresses specific relational needs that arise during this critical time, focusing on key areas such as grief and loss, role transitions, and interpersonal disputes.
For instance, new parents may experience grief over the loss of their previous lifestyle or anxiety about their new responsibilities. IPT helps them process these feelings and supports them in navigating the transition more smoothly. Additionally, interpersonal disputes, whether with a partner, family members, or friends, can surface during this period, and IPT aims to resolve these conflicts through effective communication strategies and problem-solving skills.
How IPT Works: Techniques and Strategies
IPT employs various techniques such as role-playing and direct problem-solving to help clients improve their relationships and reduce stress. The therapy sessions are typically structured around 12 sessions, with periodic check-ins thereafter to ensure ongoing support. This structure allows for focused therapy that is adapted to the immediate needs of the client, making it highly effective for perinatal individuals who may be dealing with time-sensitive and rapidly changing scenarios.
Springer shared examples of how she might work with a couple experiencing role transitions in the perinatal period. By facilitating role-plays and encouraging positive communication, she helps couples articulate their needs and expectations to each other, fostering a deeper understanding and strengthening their relationship.
Cultural Considerations in IPT
A significant aspect of IPT, as discussed by Springer on the podcast, is its adaptability to different cultural backgrounds. Decolonizing mental health involves recognizing and integrating the diverse cultural values and social support systems inherent to each person’s community. IPT’s flexibility allows therapists to tailor their approach to respect and incorporate these cultural nuances, thereby enhancing the therapy’s effectiveness and acceptance.
Training and Resources in IPT
For therapists interested in specializing in perinatal mental health through IPT, resources such as the IPT Institute offer specialized training. Elyse Springer, herself certified by the IPT Institute, emphasizes the importance of such training to equip mental health professionals with the necessary tools and skills to support perinatal clients effectively.
About Elyse Springer
Elyse Springer brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the field of perinatal mental health. Her extensive involvement with various mental health organizations, including Postpartum Support International and Maternal Mental Health NOW, has positioned her as a leading advocate and educator in the field. Her work extends beyond therapy to include policy advocacy and training, emphasizing the comprehensive approach needed to address perinatal mental health issues effectively.
The conversation on “Mom and Mind” with Dr. Kat and Elyse Springer provides profound insights into how interpersonal therapy can be a powerful tool for healing and support during the perinatal period. As more clinicians become trained in IPT, the hope is that more individuals will receive the relational and emotional support they need during one of the most transformative periods of their lives. For anyone involved in perinatal care—be it as a healthcare provider, a family member, or a friend—understanding and advocating for approaches like IPT can make a substantial difference in the mental health outcomes for new parents.
