National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) Practice Exam

Which therapy framework primarily aims at changing negative patterns in interpersonal relationships?

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

2. Adlerian therapy

3. Emotion-focused therapy

4. Interpersonal therapy

The correct answer is: Interpersonal therapy

Interpersonal therapy is specifically designed to address and change negative patterns in interpersonal relationships. This therapeutic framework focuses on improving communication and social skills, helping clients recognize the impact of their relationships on their emotional health. By examining the quality of personal relationships and addressing issues such as role transitions, grief, and interpersonal disputes, interpersonal therapy seeks to enhance the client's ability to engage more positively with others. While cognitive behavioral therapy does address negative thought patterns, its primary focus is on cognitive restructuring and behavior change rather than the nuances of interpersonal relationships. Adlerian therapy, on the other hand, emphasizes social interest and belonging but is broader and less focused specifically on interpersonal dynamics. Emotion-focused therapy primarily centers on the emotional experience of the individual, supporting the processing of emotions rather than directly modifying interpersonal relationship patterns. Thus, interpersonal therapy stands out as the framework most dedicated to altering negative patterns in interpersonal relationships.