Hello
Yes, there’s different levels of anxiety, and different triggering events for people, but mine is really debilitating. It sounds like your friend’s is too. But, likewise, once I’m comfortable with someone I’m fine (mostly!).
If i read the same post on here as you, the poster was uncomfortable talking over the phone. Me too. Complicates matters further. And then there’s the fact that sometimes I can manage things, and other times I can’t!
But you’ve hit the nail on the head - a safe, non- judgemental space makes a heck of a difference. My work (prac) team are very accommodating, so if I cry, don’t come in, leave, step out for five, or plain say “I can’t do that” - they just accept it. But also, they’re not paying me. So there’s a difference.
Well, I have a new uni supervisor to meet tomorrow. I’m hopeful it will go ok. Do stay safe over there, won’t you x