Final answer:
The empathetic statement acknowledges the client's fear and offers support by suggesting a collaborative approach for a supportive environment during discharge planning.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that demonstrates empathy for the client's fear of returning to a group home environment is: "I can understand that returning to a group home can be frightening. Let's discuss your concerns and come up with a plan that makes you feel more comfortable." This statement shows a recognition of the client's fear and offers support by acknowledging their concerns and suggesting a collaborative approach to address them. Empathy involves the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, and in this context, it is crucial in fostering a supportive environment for the client's discharge planning.