About Ira Progoff, PhD
Since the 1950s, Dr. Ira Progoff devoted his life to exploring new ways to encourage creativity and enhance individual growth. A leading authority on C.G. Jung, depth psychology and transpersonal psychology, he also created writing systems for ongoing self-development.
Exploring the Process of Human Development
Dr. Progoff completed his doctoral dissertation on the psychology of C.G. Jung at the New School for Social Research in New York City. Dr. Jung invited him to study with him in Switzerland as a Bollingen Fellow in 1952, 1953, and 1955.
As a practicing depth psychologist and Director of the Institute for Research in Depth Psychology at Drew University from 1959 to 1971, Dr. Progoff conducted research into the dynamic process by which individuals develop more fulfilling lives.
Development of the Intensive Journal Method
In the mid-1960s and throughout the 1970s, Dr. Progoff developed and refined the Intensive Journal Method. His goal was to create a practical way to mirror the inner processes through which people become more dynamic and continue developing themselves.
He wanted the average person to have a practical tool for working with the experiences, possibilities, and deeper movements of his or her own life.
Dr. Progoff conducted numerous Intensive Journal workshops throughout the United States and Canada. These workshops gave him the opportunity to continue developing and refining the Method through direct experience with participants.
At a Journal Workshop
In 1975, Dr. Progoff completed his award-winning book, At a Journal Workshop, which presents both his theory of personal and spiritual growth and practical guidance for using the Intensive Journal Method.
The 1992 edition of At a Journal Workshop includes additional exercises covering the Meaning Dimension of the Intensive Journal process.
At a Journal Workshop was recognized by Common Boundary Magazine in its January-February 1999 issue as one of the top 65 books on psychology and spirituality of the 20th century. The recognition reflects Dr. Progoff's important contribution to human development through the creation of a practical tool for personal growth.
Bringing the Method to the Public
As interest in the Method continued to grow during the 1970s, Dr. Progoff formed the Progoff National Intensive Journal Program. The organization made workshops available to the public through trained and certified leaders.
Dr. Progoff also conducted workshops in prisons, social service agencies, and health care facilities. This work reflected his commitment to making a practical tool for personal development available to people throughout society, including individuals of limited economic means.
His Legacy
Dr. Progoff passed away in January 1998 after suffering from an advanced form of the rare neurological illness Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP).
Dialogue House remains committed to carrying on Dr. Progoff's work and making the Intensive Journal Program available throughout society.