Interpersonal Psychotherapy Training (IPT) - Supervising Perinatal

About this training

This one-day training is designed to prepare IPT supervisors for their supervision of IPT Perinatal trainees.

Perinatal depression is common, with adverse effects identified for the parent(s), infant and wider social system. The perinatal period is associated with reluctance of many to use medical treatments and a preference for talking therapy. Lack of perceived support from significant others, particularly a spouse or partner has been identified as significant contextual factor (O’Hara & Swain, 1996), and an interpersonal approach to treatment and prevention of antenatal and postnatal depression may be critical.

IPT has a role in primary treatment and secondary prevention, such as reducing the risk of postpartum depression by effectively treating antenatal depression. It targets the specific symptoms and interpersonal problem areas experienced not only during the postpartum period (Stuart & O’Hara, 1995), but also during pregnancy.

The focal areas used to frame IPT address common areas of perinatal and interpersonal distress, including:

• the impact of bereavement (neonatally and historically)

• significant role changes (as a parent and in other significant roles)

• conflict and isolation at time when social support is essential.

This training also addresses the challenges underserved groups face, such as neurodivergent parents navigating significant relational and sensory challenges.

Aims of this training

• To highlight key considerations when supervising trainees working in specialist perinatal services.

• To summarise and apply the evidence gathered over more than twenty years supporting perinatal IPT.

Who is this training for?

This training is for IPT UK accredited supervisors who would like to expand their supervisory practice to work with perinatal specialist IPT trainees.