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Being Human: A User’s Guide blends real-life experience with practical psychology to explain why we react the way we do—and how to stop letting old patterns run the show. No hype, no quick fixes. Just clear, grounded tools for people who are ready to understand themselves and do something different.
David Ellis is a psychologist with decades of experience working with people at their most difficult moments—crisis, recovery, conflict, and change. His work is shaped not only by formal training but by a life lived across multiple disciplines, setbacks, and reinventions.
Rather than offering theory for theory’s sake, David focuses on what actually helps people understand themselves and function better in real life. His writing is direct, thoughtful, and grounded in experience, blending clinical insight with honesty, humor, and practicality.
Being Human: A User’s Guide reflects his belief that growth doesn’t come from perfection, positivity, or avoidance—but from understanding our emotional systems and learning how to work with them instead of against them.
David Ellis is a licensed therapist, educator, and author with over 40 years of experience in mental health and addiction recovery. His previous work, The Power of Effectiveness Therapy, was featured on the Huffington Post Recommended Reading List.
Change is often seen as an inevitable part of life, but transformation—true, meaningful change—is a deliberate and conscious process. Whether
Imagine your emotions as a balloon. At first, the balloon is light, easy to carry, and doesn’t take up much
Family dysfunction is a pervasive issue that affects countless people across the world. It refers to patterns of behavior within
If you have questions about the book, speaking opportunities, or related work, feel free to reach out. Thoughtful conversations and honest questions are always welcome.
— Emily Carter
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