Draft:Neil Soggie

Dr. Neil Soggie

Born in 1969 in Central Butte, Saskatchewan, Canada, Dr. Neil Soggie is a renowned psychologist, author, professor, and theologian known for his contributions to Existential Psychology, Positive Psychology, and the integration of phenomenological philosophy into psychotherapy. Dr. Soggie is considered a leader in the field along with the likes of Dr. Ernesto Spinelli, Dr. Paul Wong, and Dr. Emmy Van Deurzen. His academic and professional endeavors span various fields, including family therapy, forensic psychology, addictions counseling, Biblical Studies and Christian theology. He currently is a Professor of Behavioral Science in South Dakota, USA.

Higher Education

Dr. Soggie's higher education began at the University of British Columbia, but eventually shifted to the Canadian Lutheran Bible Institute, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies with a focus on Biblical History and Hebrew Language. He later earned a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Briercrest College, focusing on Biblical History and Archaeology, and a Master of Ministry in Youth Work from Trinity Western University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Faith Lutheran University. He also completed Clinical Training through the Anglican College of Emmanuel and St. Chad, and an internship at the Roman Catholic Hospital of St. Paul. He also completed a Certificate of Lutheran Formation (academic component for ELCIC ordination for graduates of Non-ELCIC seminaries) and a year-long supervised internship. To round out his studies in Biblical Literature he also completed a Doctor of Literature and Philosophy from the University of South Africa, Pretoria. Expanding into psychology, he earned a Bachelor of Arts from Waterloo University, a Master of Arts in Psychology from Concordia University, and a PhD in Psychology from a joint program involving American University, Prague Humanities Institute, and Chernivtsi National University. In order to round out his professional training he also earned a Graduate Certificate in Affective Neuroscience from Maastricht University, a Master of Education from the University of New Brunswick, and a Master of Psychotherapy and Spirituality from St. Stephen’s College at the University of Alberta.

Academic Career

Dr. Soggie has held faculty positions at numerous institutions, including Kwantlen University, Crandall University, St Francis Xavier University, University of Prince Edward Island and Sisseton Wahpeton College, where he currently serves as a professor of Behavioral Science and Addictions and Diversity Counseling. Dr. Soggie also serves the Native American community of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, and supports its traditions and values. His teaching repertoire spans courses in Abnormal Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Family Therapy, and Social Psychology.

Contributions to Psychology

Dr. Soggie is one of the world's leading experts in Existential Phenomenological Psychotherapy. His theoretical work often draws on the existential philosophies of Viktor Frankl, Søren Kierkegaard, and Jean-Paul Sartre. He created a rubric for happiness based on existential principles, positing the formula Intentionality + Meaning = Happiness. As an advocate for sexual freedom and the scientific understanding of sexuality, Dr. Soggie's research frequently addresses issues of diversity and inclusivity within counseling and therapy. He has also contributed significantly to forensic psychology, with a focus on violence risk assessments and neuropsychological evaluations of offenders.

Writing and Publications

Dr. Soggie has authored numerous books, including Logotherapy: Viktor Frankl, Life and Work, and his writings are widely regarded in the fields of native American legends, psychology, ancient history and literature, and philosophy.

Legacy

Dr. Neil Soggie's multidisciplinary career and profound insights have left a lasting impact on the fields of psychology, theology, and education. His work continues to inspire students, professionals, and readers worldwide, bridging the gap between academic rigor and practical human understanding.

References

Sisseton Wahpeton College Faculty page: https://www.swcollege.edu/newswcollege/faculty_staff/neil-soggie/

University of St. Francis Xavier: https://stfxuniversity.ca/faculty-staff/neil-soggie

Soggie, N. (2016). Logotherapy: Viktor Frankl Life and Work. Lexington Psychological Series.

Soggie, N. (2005). Existo: Worldview and a Meaningful Existence. University Press of America.

Soggie, N. (2007). Myth, God and War. University Press of America.

Living with the Unfixable. Catholic Journal of the United States