Yes, Surprise is his real given name. Dr. Kirby Surprise received his Doctorate in Counseling Psychology in 2007 from the Institute for Integral Studies in San Francisco and his Masters in advanced psychodynamic and transpersonal studies from John F. Kennedy University. He worked for 14 years as a social worker in impoverished areas before returning to graduate school. Dr. Surprise received his license as a psychologist in 2009, and currently works in an advanced outpatient program for the state of California.

He is a professional communicator, having given workshops and lectures on his subject, and conducts psycho educational groups on a wide variety of subjects for the state of California. The inspiration for his writing comes from a lifelong interest in psychology, metaphysics, philosophy, history, science, and his work with his clients. His interest in Synchronicity stemmed from experiencing frequent and surprising SE, and needing a working understanding of the phenomena. The model of SE he teaches was a response by SE themselves to his asking “How does synchronicity work?”

He was born in Glen Cove Long Island. He grew up in Bethpage, New York, with his parents Gladys and Alfred, and his older brother Tom. Dr. Surprise met his wife Patricia while in college in New York. They have been married for 28 years and have two children, Vencenza and George.