Effectiveness of Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) for Men and Women Prisoners With Major Depression

Effectiveness of Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) for Men and Women Prisoners With Major Depression

This study will examine the effects of a first-line treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), among men and women prisoners.

The purpose of this 3-year randomized trial is to promote uptake of evidence-based treatment in criminal justice settings by conducting a fully-powered randomized effectiveness study that collects pilot implementation data, including cost-effectiveness data. Group IPT will be compared to treatment as usual (TAU) in a sample of 90 male and 90 female prisoners with MDD from 4 institutions, allowing us to explore gender effects.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Meet all DSM-IV criteria for primary (non-substance induced) major depressive disorder
• Expectation of at least 6 months of incarceration at baseline interview
• Incarcerated for at least 4 weeks

Exclusion Criteria:

• Lifetime:

  • Bipolar disorder
  • Psychotic disorder

• Are imminently suicidal

• Cannot understand English well enough to understand the consent form or assessment instruments when read aloud