Directive Techniques is an IPT intervention used to connect depressive symptoms with current interpersonal events and to turn that connection into concrete relational work. The therapist keeps the focus on real people, recent conversations, affect, expectations, support, and the next interpersonal step rather than abstract interpretation.
Step-by-step guide
- Introduce Directive Techniques in relation to the selected IPT focus area.
- Ask for a recent, concrete interpersonal episode rather than a general summary.
- Clarify who was involved, what was said, what was felt, and what remained unspoken.
- Link the episode to mood changes and to the chosen focus: grief, role dispute, role transition, or interpersonal deficits.
- Rehearse or plan one specific interpersonal action before the next session.
- Review the result in the following session and refine the formulation.
When to use
- During the middle phase of IPT when the focal area is already selected.
- When mood changes are linked to a concrete relationship event.
- When the client needs practice turning insight into communication or action.
Key phrases
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Follow-up questions
Who was involved, and what exactly was said?
What did you feel but not say?
How did your mood change before and after this interaction?
Alternative phrasings
Let us slow the conversation down line by line.
What would you like to try differently next time?
How does this connect with our IPT focus?
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not drift into broad personality interpretation; stay with current relationships.
- ⚠️ Do not work on multiple focal areas at once unless the primary focus remains clear.
- ⚠️ Keep homework concrete and interpersonal, not only reflective.
Source: Weissman, Markowitz, Klerman, 2018
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.