I don’t think I’ve ever read an article here or anyone that so deeply resonates. As someone who has broken a few therapists, it’s not exactly a superpower, but honesty is refreshing. The only reason I’ve stayed with my current therapist is because never once has she tried to “fix” me; she has simply beared witness, validated the extent of my suffering, and over time become the surrogate mother I didn’t know I needed. Beautifully written. I would congratulate you on your resilience, but I struggle to do so because as someone who also receives that “compliment” and doesn’t like it, I’ll simply say I’m sorry you’ve had to be.