Photo of Rachel Eakley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Rachel Eakley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Not accepting new clients
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing individual psychotherapy and medication management for adults and children with mental health needs. I have experience working with clients across a broad spectrum of diagnoses, age groups, and needs. I have a special interest in supporting individuals through times of transition, such as marriage, pregnancy, new parenthood, college, loss, and separation.
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing individual psychotherapy and medication management for adults and children with mental health needs. I have experience working with clients across a broad spectrum of diagnoses, age groups, and needs. I have a special interest in supporting individuals through times of transition, such as marriage, pregnancy, new parenthood, college, loss, and separation.
(516) 701-2950 View (516) 701-2950
Interpersonal Psychiatrists

Is interpersonal therapy evidence-based?

Studies have found interpersonal therapy to be effective for life transitions including retirement, divorce, and job loss. Also, some studies have found it to be just as useful as medication and other therapy approaches. The benefits of interpersonal therapy can last long after treatment has been completed; the individual can use the tenets of this therapy throughout their life.

How long does interpersonal therapy take?

Interpersonal psychotherapy is normally time-limited and focuses on specific problems in the client’s everyday relationships. Treatment can be either one-on-one or take place in a group setting; it tends to last 12 to 16 weeks, depending on the individual client’s needs. If a new interpersonal problem arises in the future, the client may require additional therapy to address it specifically. The timeline and session schedule may vary depending on the client’s challenges as well as their progress. Treatment may conclude with wrap-up sessions to review the client’s accomplishments.

Is interpersonal therapy effective?

Research shows that interpersonal therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of conditions such as depression or anxiety. The approach may also offer a range of benefits that are hard to measure but valuable—including healthier relationships and improved feelings of self-worth. The therapist will give the client practical solutions that can be put into practice. The brief duration of this therapy also means that clients can see changes in their relationships fairly quickly.

What are the limitations of interpersonal therapy?

Interpersonal therapy may not effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as psychosis, chronic illness, or alcohol relapse. Because it is short-term in nature, it may not be the best approach for conditions that need to be tracked, though maintenance sessions are a viable approach under these circumstances.

Can interpersonal psychotherapy be done online?

Yes, interpersonal psychotherapy can be conducted effectively either in-person or online. A therapist with expertise in IPT will be able to adjust their techniques, such as role-playing, to better suit the online environment. Offering online IPT can make it more accessible for clients who have transportation difficulties; it also provides the ideal opportunity to explore challenges unique to digital relationships.