Interpersonal psychotherapy for depressed adolescents (IPT-A)

Abstract

Objectives: Recently the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a black box warning on the use of serotonin receptor reuptake inhibitors for adolescent depression. This situation makes the non-pharmacological therapeutic alternatives more relevant than ever before. The aim of this review is to introduce the theoretical formulation, practical application and efficacy studies of Interpersonal Psychotherapy for depressed adolescents (IPT-A).

Method: A review is offered of published papers in peer-reviewed journals, books and edited chapters using Medline and PsychInfo publications between 1966 and February 2005.

Results: IPT-A is an evidence-based psychotherapy for depressed adolescents in both hospital-based and community outpatient settings.

Conclusion: IPT-A is a brief and efficient therapy for adolescent depression. Training programs for child psychologists and psychiatrists are recommended.