Could this situation be handled like, therapy sessions through which you gradually relearn how to hold conversations comfortably without losing focus or struggling.
Yes and no. The focus and struggling can't likely be relearned much - but learning how to just be quiet and listen, without feeling the need to give any input could. But, what kind of conversation is that?
Perhaps I should carry around a notebook and take notes - but it is hard to do when having a few drinks in a bar! :D