Skip to content

Written by Online therapist Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst, Ph.D.

Podcast: Born Connected

Why We Crave Connection

Connection is not optional, it’s part of our wiring. For individuals in Maryland and DC, this conversation explores why we seek closeness, how relationships shape us, and why connection remains essential throughout our lives.

Hi there,

I recently joined bLU Talks to talk about something we all feel but don’t always notice: our need to connect. From the very beginning, we are wired to reach out, to share, and to belong. We explored how memories and life experiences shape the way we relate to others, how our brains influence our emotions and bodies, and how connection continues to matter throughout our lives.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Why connection drives growth and change
  • How we form friendships and relationships as adults
  • The ways our brains and bodies respond to emotional experiences
  • Simple ways to reflect, share, and foster meaningful connection

This conversation is a reminder that connection isn’t just a nice idea—it’s part of what makes life meaningful, and there’s always room to grow, heal, and reach out.

🎧 Listen to the full episode: Born Connected – bLU Talks

Want to explore more about connection and emotional well‑being? Visit Psychology Today’s insights on why humans need connection and Greater Good’s research on how connection shapes well‑being.

If this conversation sparks reflection about relationships, belonging, or emotional growth, therapy can help. Learn more about individual therapy in Maryland and DC or explore therapeutic approaches that support clarity, resilience, and deeper connection.

related blog post by Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst, Ph.D.

Read more of my stories and reflections

One of the teachers journaling about the meaning of the word “like” with mental clarity in the new year, symbolizing language evolution and emotional expression in Maryland and DC.

Teachers

TEACHERS Guides, Mirrors, and the Architects of Tomorrow Teachers don’t just teach—they shape futures. For individuals in Maryland and DC, this reflection explores how educators serve as emotional anchors, role models, and catalysts for transformation in the lives of children and communities. I saw a television show this week where
Read My Post
An emotional woman camping and relaxing next to daffodils blooming beside a butterfly bush on a high visibility day, symbolizing seasonal expectations, renewal and emotional reflection in Maryland and DC.

Camping! | Family Adventures and Lakeside Memories

Family Adventures, Lakeside Memories, and the Joy of Being Outdoors Hello, outdoor lovers! Are you going camping? Have you been camping this year? Do you have a favorite spot? Camping is an inexpensive way to entertain the entire family. As a kid, my family vacationed this way every year. It
Read My Post
Person drinking coffee and wearing denim after Threading the Needle, symbolizing emotional balance and resilience through therapy in Maryland and DC.

OK, I Give Up! | A Humorous Reflection on Threading the Needle

National Thread the Needle Day, Really? National Thread the Needle Day! Come on! We now have a national day for everything. And I will admit that, as I get older, threading the needle gets harder. In fact, last week, as I was threading the needle on my sewing machine, I
Read My Post
A person writing an apology note after being caught in scams, symbolizing vulnerability, emotional growth, ICBM, and conscience in Maryland and DC.

Scams

SCAMS Deception, Vulnerability, and the Emotional Toll of Being Fooled Scams aren’t just financial—they’re emotional invasions. For individuals in Maryland and DC, this reflection explores how scams exploit trust, trigger shame, and fracture relationships, and why emotional recovery is just as vital as financial repair. Ahh! That is no doubt
Read My Post