PhD Researcher in Psychology, Contemplative Science and Psychometry, AUT New Zealand | Graduate Teaching Assistant, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, School of Clinical Sciences, AUT | M.A. Clinical Psychology | Licensed Psychologist | B.A. Psychology and Graduate of the Brain and Mind Program |
Editorial Assistant, Mindfulness at Springer Nature | Ad hoc Reviewer for Mindfulness at Springer Nature |
Ad hoc Reviewer for Journal of Psychology and AI at Taylor & Francis | Authorised Dharma Teacher |
Visiting Scholar at ICAMH, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem | Organising Committee Member – International Conference on Mindfulness Asia–Pacific ICM-AP Series
ABOUT SHON PREM BON SOENG
Shon is a licensed psychologist and researcher whose journey spans Europe, Asia, America, and Oceania, engaging in diverse clinical, research and contemplative disciplines. Her international training has shaped a holistic and interdisciplinary perspective that integrates modern psychological science, including clinical psychology, positive psychology, and neuroscience, with the ancient wisdom of Buddhism. By bridging contemplative wisdom traditions with empirical psychological research, she explores integrative and innovative ways to understand the mind and consciousness, enhance well-being and mental health, and promote human flourishing.
As an authorised Dharma Teacher and contemplative with a deep-rooted background in Buddhism, Shon integrates ethical principles, compassion, insight, and wisdom into both her research and practice. Her work reflects scientific rigour while encompassing a profound psychological and transpersonal understanding.
Shon is currently undertaking a PhD in Psychology at Auckland University of Technology (AUT), New Zealand, under the supervision of Prof. Chris Krägeloh (AUT), Prof. Mario Mikulincer (Hebrew University of Jerusalem), and Dr. Oleg Medvedev (University of Waikato). She is the recipient of the Doctoral Scholarship awarded by the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences (FHES). Her research centres on conceptualising and assessing enlightenment in psychological and contemplative sciences, as well as developing and validating a new psychometric instrument. Her work reflects a deep commitment to advancing psychological research that fosters the cultivation of the human mind to its highest potential.
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Passionate about education, Shon has gained valuable teaching experience in various settings, facilitating workshops on mindfulness, meditation, spiritual accompaniment, Buddhism, metaphysics, transpersonal and contemplative psychology, personal development, and well-being. Her teaching approach emphasises interactive learning, critical reflection, and experiential practice, encouraging participants to engage deeply with theoretical concepts and real-world applications. In doing so, she fosters intellectual curiosity and personal growth within a supportive, enriching learning environment.
With a strong dedication to scientific inquiry and contemplative practice, Shon seeks to contribute to the evolving field of Contemplative Psychology—integrating deep introspection and insight with empirical research to explore how the psychological dimensions of wisdom and enlightenment can be cultivated through the integration of contemplative insight and scientific inquiry.
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
BPS – The British Psychological Society
Graduate Member, Clinical Psychology Division, GMBPsS, GBC
Membership No. 690706
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APA – American Psychological Association
International Affiliate Membership No. C2505669936
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ISCR – International Society of Contemplative Research, Link
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GCC – Global Compassion Coalition
Founding Supporter Membership, Link
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AREAS OF SPECIALISATION
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Clinical Psychology
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Integrative Psychotherapy
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Research in Psychology
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Positive Psychology
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Contemplative Psychology
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Contemplative Wisdom
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Psychology of Enlightenment
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Buddhist Psychology
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Buddhist Dharma Teaching
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Zen Meditation Teaching
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Mindfulness Teaching
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Workshop Leading ​
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Guest Lecturing