Interpersonal Process Groups

Healing happens not just within ourselves, but through meaningful connections with others. These groups shed light on how your interactions tie into addiction and recovery. They will help you build stronger connections both inside and outside treatment.

Whether you are working through trust issues, managing conflict, or learning to express your authentic self, Interpersonal Process Therapy (IPT) for substance abuse provides an opportunity for growth through connection.

What is Interpersonal Process Therapy?

Interpersonal Process Therapy is a structured, time-limited form of psychotherapy that aims to improve how people relate to others. It was developed in the 1970s by Gerald Klerman and Myrna Weissman. IPT was originally meant to treat major depression by addressing interpersonal problems that affect mood, but expanded to treat various mental and substance use disorders.

While therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focus on changing thought patterns, IPT deals with feelings and relationship patterns. It helps clients see how their interactions with people can affect their mental health and substance use struggles. Rather than assigning homework or focusing on cognitive distortions, IPT therapists guide clients to observe and shift unhelpful relationship behaviors.

IPT draws from both cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic traditions, combining a clear structure with attention to emotions. It is considered an empirically supported treatment, particularly effective when paired with other treatment modalities.

How are Interpersonal Process Group Sessions Structured?

Interpersonal Process Group sessions follow a clear, phased approach to maximize progress and support. During the first few sessions (1–3), the group focuses on gathering information and identifying significant relationships through an interpersonal inventory, i.e., a map of important connections in your life. These relationships are then categorized into four main problem areas to help guide the group’s focus. These areas are:

• Grief – dealing with the pain of losing someone you love or some other significant loss.
• Role disputes – conflicts with significant others because your expectations differ.
• Role transitions – difficulty adjusting to life changes, such as moving, changing jobs, or relationship shifts.
• Interpersonal deficits – ongoing patterns of social isolation or unfulfilling relationships.

In the middle phase (sessions 4–14), members work together to explore and improve the selected problem areas. With guidance from the facilitator, the group collaborates to develop strategies for addressing challenges and encourages each member to apply these solutions between meetings.

The final sessions (15–16) are dedicated to processing any feelings about ending the group experience and reflecting on the progress made. The group reviews the relationships discussed earlier and celebrates the growth achieved throughout the therapy process.

What are the Benefits of Interpersonal Process Groups for Someone with Substance Use Disorder

Interpersonal process groups can help people in recovery from addiction because they offer both emotional support and practical skill-building. In these groups, you can:

• Understand relationship patterns – gain insight into how your behavior affects others, and how others’ actions and words influence your substance use.
• Connect with emotions in real time – learn to notice and name your feelings as they arise, rather than numbing them through substances.
• Receive peer validation and support – feel a sense of belonging with others who are also in recovery.
• Practice vulnerability in a safe space – build trust by sharing openly and receiving empathetic feedback.
• Strengthen recovery skills – develop empathy, active listening, and collaboration, which support relationships outside of the group.
• Stay accountable – identify and address patterns that could undermine recovery or connection.

Who are Interpersonal Process Groups For?

Interpersonal process groups are for anyone who wants to work on their ability to communicate and connect with others. Because they do not follow a rigid curriculum, these groups evolve with the needs and growth of the members. This flexibility makes them a great fit for people in all stages of recovery..

If you are wondering if an interpersonal process group would benefit you, consider these questions:

• Do you want to understand more clearly how your behavior impacts others and how their actions impact you?
• Do you find it hard to express yourself in an assertive yet respectful way?
• Do you often feel preoccupied with how others perceive you?
• Do you struggle to identify or articulate your emotions in the moment?

If you answered “yes” to any of these, an interpersonal process group could provide the guidance, feedback, and safe environment you need to grow.

Learn, Connect, and Heal with Q Space Detox

Our treatment approach combines interpersonal process therapy with other evidence-based and supportive therapies. We want to give you tools to heal both emotionally and physically. In a supportive, LGBTQ+-affirming environment, you can confront the relationships, patterns, and feelings that fuel your substance use. With our help, you can build a life rooted in self-understanding and connection. Call us today at 786-981-6294 to get started.