Talking Therapies : Dynamic interpersonal therapy
Overview
Dynamic Interpersonal Therapy (DIT) is a treatment for depression that can help people with emotional and relationship problems.
It is a form of psychotherapy which helps you to understand patterns in your relationships with others, tracing back to your experiences in childhood.
It can help you to understand how you see yourself and how you think others, particularly people you are close to, might see you.
What treatment involves
In your first session, your therapist will listen to the challenges you’re facing and what you would like to focus on addressing. Together, you will discuss the important relationships in your life, what you find difficult, and their connection to your depression.
You will identify patterns in how you see yourself in relation to others and your therapist will share with you their understanding of your individual experiences.
You will then agree on the areas you wish to work on during treatment to help you make sense of the way you think and behave.
As when you can deal with relationship problems more effectively, symptoms of depression often improve.
Most people usually receive 8 to 16 sessions, each lasting 30 to 50 minutes. This may vary depending on your individual needs and the treatment plan you develop with your therapist. DIT is only available by online video call or face-to-face at one of our locations.
We do not offer this treatment by phone call.
Accessing this treatment
To access this therapy you need to complete a wellbeing assessment with NHS Berkshire Talking Therapies, and be offered this treatment by one of our therapists. You may be offered a different treatment if we find another therapy or service is better suited to your needs.
You can refer yourself to NHS Berkshire Talking Therapies for a wellbeing assessment by completing our online form.
Preparing for treatment
Here are a few things you can do to get the most of your treatment:
- attend all sessions on time as planned
- be open and honest about your problems
- make your treatment aims as clear as possible, as working towards a goal can help boost your confidence
- be active in your sessions: ask us questions if you don’t understand a term or phrase we’ve used or if you’re unsure what happens next
- bring a pen and paper to take notes and read back on afterwards, as this will help you remember what we’ve discussed and what you need to do next
- keep your notes and sheets organised in a folder or a notebook
- allow yourself time after each session to gather your thoughts
- complete any tasks between sessions, as agreed with your therapist
- plan time each week to complete any activities we’ve suggested for you
If you're attending your sessions by video call, you will need to have:
- regular access to the internet, including sound, on a phone, tablet or laptop that can play video; and
- a private space to take the call without interruptions or distractions – such as care giving or driving.
- reading glasses, if applicable for you
Frequently asked questions
Who delivers counselling for dynamic interpersonal therapy sessions?
You will see a therapist who is trained in dynamic interpersonal therapy and accredited with a recognised UK professional body, such as:
- Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
- British Association of Psychotherapy and Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
- UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
- British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP)
This includes trainees working towards their postgraduate certificate.
Will I have to talk about my childhood or past events?
Yes, looking at underlying causes or patterns of thinking formed in childhood and how they are influencing your current experiences is a key feature of this treatment.
More about Talking Therapies
If your question isn’t answered here, you can find additional FAQs about Talking Therapies on our service page.
Support to stay well after your treatment
At the end of your treatment, you can join our online platform called SHaRON (Support Hope and Recovery Resources Online Network).
This is a secure online space for you to connect with others who are on a similar treatment journey and help you maintain the gains made during therapy and stay well.
When you log in, you’ll be able to find support resources such as forums, videos and blogs.
During office hours, you can also use The Wall to talk to peers and to our moderating team, which includes experienced clinicians, former patients, and volunteers, who can provide real-time commentary and support.
It can also be used by relatives and carers who are supporting a friend or relative with their needs.
Ask your therapist to help you get started.