Hi frazzled - great name BTW - I was riveted by your story, and by your descriptive way of telling it. It seems to me that you had a stable childhood because of the way you've come through all this shaken but fundamentally stable. You're learning from you past, I can't say mistakes because who wouldn't help a neighbour, your past traumas, stayed on the rails and are even planning to make the most of everything by becoming a counsellor. I hope your career choice doesn't expose you to the negative aspects of your past too much.
As a recovering A (4 years now) I've found SR to be a wonderful resource, and a constant reminder what could happen if I get too complacent. Because it's well moderated I recommend it to others and have told my doctor about it.
All the best for the future. I know it must be hard being so far away from your family, but at least you've chosen a great country to settle in
