[FONT="Comic Sans MS"]Hi! I'm Jill and would really like some recommendations. In 2008, I was recognized by the federal government as disabled and on social security. I'm really overwelmed right now, so please read this. I just need some answers.

I was diagnosed with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder & GAD. Where am I going with all of this? I am a survivor of a traumatic head injury which initially occurred in 1986. When I was younger, I was able to receive my Masters Degree, buy a home, make a decent amount of money and even adopt my son. Throughout this time, I was never without my dog. Yes, since 1986, 4 of my dogs have passed. In 2005, I underwent nueropsyciatric testing as I began having difficulties on my job as a Social Worker and at home. It was diagnosed that I came out of "remission" as I was showing signs of cognitive difficulties, motor difficulties & learning difficultiies. Now, at age 53, I had to short sell my home, have no money & am leaving California and moving to Colorado in hopes of locating an afforable environment (unlike California & I'm a frickin native - kind of angry about that ). Anyways, my dog, Bear, has been a huge support for me. My balance is kind of funky, so if I fall, Bear is right there to help me back up. He senses when I'm unhappy or going thru a bipolar episode.

I wish to make Bear either a Psychiatric Support dog or an Emotional Support dog. I have spoken to my psychiatrist about this and at my next appointment I want to present him with an outline or a copy of a letter that he'd write that specifies my diagnosis and request that Bear becomes my psychiatric support dog. I'm very fearful, that I will not find a place to live or even to stay in hotels because I have Bear. I will not give him up. Can you provide me with an example of a letter that my Psychiatrist, Dr. Guzman can sign.

Hi, and welcome to NT! I'm so sorry for all you've been through.

Here is a link to the Service Dog forum:
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum83.html

I have MS, and I have a service dog. His name is Monty, and we've been partners for over three years. There is a website:
AssistanceDogsInternational.org They will be able to provide you a list, by state that will tell you where to find a trainer who will work with you so that You can get Bear certified.

Good luck to you!

Hello and welcome to NeuroTalk. Happy to see you have come to be with us. Just let us know if we can be of any help.

There are great and caring fellow members here to assist you. Our shouders are here for support in many ways. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around.

Darlene