Fondly called "Mike" or "Doc" by friends and colleagues, Dr. Michael G. Rayel loves to laugh and to explore the world as he pursues his diverse interests — from promoting mental health to being active in sports, from hiking and traveling to writing articles and books.

Born and raised in the Philippines, Dr. Mike learned the value of hard work, respect, discipline, and faith early on. At a young age, he had seen how his mother would toil as a teacher during the day and as a businesswoman at night, and still had time to pray and attend church regularly. Similarly his father, who was a farmer all his life, showed him the joy of simple living, the wonders of facing life's challenges with humor and strong resolve.

Surrounded by loving family, he further developed confidence, positive attitude, and sense of humor amid the uncertainty in his community. The lack of money in the household was well compensated by loads of fun and laughter. Also, his Lola (grandmother) ensured that he would get ample advice before exploring the world on his own.

As a child, his parents inculcated the value of education as the surest passport to success. His father used to say, “Success is when you’re able to add two or more letters before or after your name. Once you have those extra letters, you will never worry as jobs will chase after you.”

After medical school, he moved to North America determined to chase his dreams, inspired to live the life he yearned for. Very soon, he found himself training in USA, mentored by some of the finest minds in psychiatry. He finished general psychiatry at New York Medical College, geriatric psychiatry at New York University Medical Center, and forensic and correctional psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.

With a strong sense of travel and adventure, Dr. Mike and his family moved to Canada where they have settled and thrived for the past several years. In this amazing place, he has met some of the friendliest and kindest people and has experienced some of the most scenic, heavenly places on earth.

Inspired by his family and surroundings, he has honed his talents, creating award-winning games (e.g. Oikos Game, Fikloo, Wordigy, and Actus Tale)and educational materials designed to help others flourish. As a board-certified psychiatrist, he has helped many individuals and families with their mental health and personal issues. Despite his busy clinical practice, he has dedicated his time in writing books, in publishing webinars in mental health and psychiatry, and in creating educational products. You may visit his blog www.shrinkyourtroubles.com/blog to learn more about his latest activities.

As a hands-on Dad, Dr. Mike has been involved in most of his children’s activities and has coached his sons’ sports teams. With a supportive wife beside him, things are looking up.