Dr. David G. Benner is an internationally known clinical psychologist, author, and lecturer whose life's work has been directed toward the promotion of the well-being of the inner life of persons, focusing in particular on the ways in which psychological and spiritual dynamics interact in the depths of the soul. The underlying passion of his life has been the understanding and pursuit of transformation – not merely healing or even growth, but the unfolding of the self associated with a journey of awakening. This has been the focus of his more than three decades of work in psychotherapy and spiritual direction, and his more recent work guiding those who seek personal transformation through spiritual openness and awareness.

David's educational background includes an Honors BA in psychology (McMaster University), an MA and Ph.D. in clinical psychology (York University), and post-doctoral studies at the Chicago Institute of Psychoanalysis. He has authored or edited over twenty-four books and has held numerous clinical and academic appointments in Canada, the United States and abroad. His best known books have been Care of Souls (Baker, 1998), Sacred Companions (IVP, 2002), Strategic Pastoral Counseling, 2nd Edition (Baker, 2003), Surrender to Love (IVP, 2003), The Gift of Being Yourself (IVP, 2004), and Desiring God's Will (IVP 2005). His books have been translated into twelve foreign languages with worldwide sales of over 250,000 copies. In recent years he has lectured and led workshops or retreats throughout North America as well as in South Africa, Denmark, Norway, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, Philippines and Indonesia. His books and teaching reflect both his Christian faith and the fact that he holds his beliefs with humility as they continue to evolve within a context of ecumenical and inter-faith dialogue and journeying with those of any faith or none.

Among his many citations and honors, he has been named in International Men of Achievement, The Directory of Distinguished Americans, The International Book of Honor, Dictionary of International Biography, International Directory of Distinguished Leadership, Who's Who Among Human Service Professionals, and Who's Who in Theology and Science.

David was the founding Director of the Institute for Psychospiritual Health (Toronto, Ontario), founding Chair of the Graduate Department of Psychological Studies at Wheaton College (Wheaton, Illinois), Founding Executive Editor of the journal, Conversations, and a founding member (Charter Member) of the International Society for the Study of Multiple Personality Disorder (subsequently, International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation). He is currently Emeritus Distinguished Professor of Psychology and Spirituality at Psychological Studies Institute, Richmont Graduate University (Atlanta, Georgia). He also serves as Consulting Psychologist for GAP Adventures – a global adventure tour company. Beyond work his other principal interests are sailing, cycling, jazz, and hiking. He and his wife (Juliet Benner) live on Vancouver Island in Canada.