IPT has a 'here and now' focus to help people resolve some of the immediate problems in their interpersonal relationships. IPT assists in the improvement of interpersonal relationships by strengthening communication skills and self-esteem.

Insight-oriented psychotherapy is based on the concepts of psychoanalytic theory developed by Sigmund Freud, but uses slightly different techniques and timeframes. It is also known as expressive therapy and intensive psychoanalytic psychotherapy.