What does an interpersonal process (IP) therapy group focus on?

An IP group is distinct from a psychoeducational/skills-based group or an advice-giving
support group. When people join an IP therapy group, they tend to recreate the social
dynamics in the therapy room that show up “in the real world.” In other words, IP groups
are thought to serve as a close approximation of someone’s typical relational self. This
is great news, because IP groups can therefore provide the opportunity to practice new
ways of relating to others. So, the focus of an IP group is on the here-and-now
interactions between group members. It prioritizes the group process, or emerging dynamics between members (stuff “in here”), rather than any one specific content area
or topic (stuff “out there”). In short, IP groups focus on:

● Increasing awareness of interpersonal patterns as they’re unfolding in the
here-and-now within group interactions
● Helping members understand their impact on others
● Experimenting with more direct, flexible, and authentic ways of relating
● Building tolerance for closeness, conflict, and feedback
● Expanding emotional expression