Purpose 🎯

Help clients identify supportive relationships and increase meaningful connection while addressing isolation associated with depression.

Let’s Talk About It 🗣️

Create a map of important relationships.

Explore:

• Who helps you feel understood?
• Who do you feel disconnected from?
• What prevents you from reaching out?

Identify one relationship step to practice.

If the Conversation Gets Stuck 💡

• What does isolation protect you from?
• What do you fear others would notice?
• What would connection look like at a manageable level?

Telehealth / Whiteboard Version ⚖️

Use a shared screen to create circles representing levels of closeness and support.

Why This Works 🌱

Connection is a protective factor against depressive symptoms and helps clients rebuild support systems.

Clinical Pearl 🧠

Depression often creates withdrawal before clients recognize they are isolated. Start with small, realistic connection goals.

Documentation Language 📝

Therapist utilized interpersonal and behavioral activation interventions to explore social support, isolation patterns, and opportunities for increased connection.

Clinical Focus: Social Connection, Isolation Reduction, Interpersonal Support