Beginning IPT

This chapter describes the technical aspects of how to begin IPT, including how to assess depression and complete the tasks of the first sessions. Clinicians who are experienced in assessing depression can skip this section. We first describe the tasks of the opening sessions and explain how to carry them out. The order may vary slightly depending on the patient’s clinical presentation, but by the end of the first phase, as the therapist, you should ensure that every task has been covered. You should strive to keep the initial phase of IPT brief, seeking to reach the middle phase as soon as possible