I owe my psychiatrist everything. He has stood by me, supported me, encouraged me and yes sometimes got tough when the situation required it. There is no one I trust more. He's seen me through brutal psychotic episodes and long hospitalizations. Has shown me great empathy as we explored my complex trauma history together. Prevented me from causing an international incident when I was manic. Was my champion for compassionate psychiatric care when I underwent breast cancer treatment. Expressed genuine compassion when he had to have me restrained. I think it bothered him as much as it bothered me to have to be restrained. I know he always has my best interests at heart. I am an author because of his encouragement and faith. I may not have been blessed with a childhood someone would want, but I was blessed with an MD who literally helped put the pieces back together in my adulthood.