Welcome to Ask a Therapist, the first of a recurring monthly advice column answering readers’ questions and providing practical strategies for approaching struggles with mindfulness and intention. Our goal is to replace shame with curiosity, isolation with connection, and judgment with empathy around our shared life challenges. The following question is one I hear often in my practice: How do I make friends and meaningful connections in a new city? Success isn’t measured by making immediate friends: It’s about consistently putting yourself in situations where relationships can naturally develop. Connection takes time, but you are actively building a life here, and that’s something to be proud of.