Holly Parker Ph.D.

When Reality Bites: How Denial Helps and What to do When it Hurts by Holly Parker is a comprehensive look at all aspects of denial. One night, Parker was having dinner with her husband in an elegant restaurant and didn't feel well, denied feeling unwell to herself, yet moments later fainted. This is a simple example of what most people do every day, deny reality, deny what is actually happening. Parker clearly and succinctly explains how to recognize denial, accept it, and even use it to your advantage. Written in a light and easy tone, Parker is never condescending, but rather encouraging to the reader. While denial in and of itself can lead to damaging behaviors and outcomes, the right balance of denial and acceptance, according to Parker, can lead to a better life all around. With plenty of exercises and questions for the reader to answer throughout the book, Parker has offered the reader practical solutions to manage difficult and challenging times.… (mehr)