Psychodynamic-Interpersonal Therapy: An Overview of the Treatment Approach and Evidence Base

Abstract

This article describes the development of Psychodynamic-Interpersonal Therapy or the Conversational Model of therapy, as it is also known. It includes a brief description of the approach to therapy, a review of the evidence base, and a brief description of qualitative and psychotherapy process research that has been conducted on the model.

A Rome Working Team Report on Brain-Gut Behavior Therapies for Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction

“…Psychodynamic-interpersonal therapy is often recommended for patients with severe persistent symptoms whose illness identity and associated interpersonal difficulties have become a primary focus in life. 42 Meta-analyses have shown effectiveness of psychodynamic-interpersonal therapy for functional somatic syndromes, 43 as have RCTs in IBS and dyspepsia. 44,45 Furthermore, there is evidence that psychodynamicinterpersonal therapy is superior to paroxetine and costeffective.…”

Pain in irritable bowel syndrome: Does anything really help?

“…It is effective in functional somatic syndromes 52 as well as in IBS. 53 In summary, diverse types of BGBT show promising results in the treatment of pain in IBS, but there is evidence of significant heterogeneity between studies and bias in most studies, notably the lack of blinding.…”

Gut feelings 1. Mind, mood and gut in irritable bowel syndrome: approaches to psychiatric care

“…Cognitive behavioural therapy, brief psychodynamic interpersonal therapy, group therapy and hypnotherapy have all been demonstrated to improve overall wellbeing and IBS symptoms. 20 An example of a cognitive behavioural formulation and treatment of IBS is given in the Clinical Vignette 1, below.…”