Today’s 50-minute telehealth session focused on the client’s feelings of loneliness after relocating to a new city. They said, "I don’t know where to start, and it feels like everyone already has their groups," explaining how difficult it’s been to make new friends. We discussed ways to start connecting, including joining local groups or taking classes that align with their interests. The client expressed fear of rejection, unsure about how to approach strangers or make new connections. We talked about how many people in new cities experience the same feelings and how it takes time to build meaningful relationships.
I suggested that they start by attending virtual events or online communities that align with their interests, as this might feel less intimidating initially. I encouraged them to set small social goals, like introducing themselves to at least one person at each event. Client seemed open to the idea but was still anxious about how to initiate conversations. Their homework is to research one social group or activity they’d like to join and attend it virtually within the next week. We’ll follow up next week to see how they’re doing.