Center for Continuous Learning

Dr. Carissa Dwiwardani is a Professor of Psychology at the Rosemead School of Psychology, Biola University, and a licensed psychologist who is board-certified in clinical psychology through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). She earned her Ph.D. and M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Biola University. Her scholarly work explores the intersection of psychology, theology, faith, and culture, with a particular focus on Asian and Asian American communities. Her research emphasizes multicultural issues, cultural humility in clinical practice, and the integration of psychology and theology. She is committed to bridging research and clinical application to improve access to services that are culturally informed and honor the lived experience of faith. To this end, she co-directs the Culture and Mental Health Research Lab, which seeks to understand the unique mental health needs of underserved populations through mixed-method and qualitative research. Dr. Dwiwardani serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Psychology and Theology and contributes to the field through leadership roles in the American Psychological Association and partnerships with organizations that promote mental health and whole-person integration. She is the co-author of The Integration Journey: A Student’s Guide to Faith, Culture, and Psychology (IVP Academic) and has published on topics including attachment, humility, and post-traumatic growth. She lives in the Greater Los Angeles area with her husband and two children. She enjoys listening to audiobooks on long walks, spending time outdoors with her family, and trying new cuisines.

Sam Lee is the Director of Church Engagement at Barnabas & Co., which cares for, equips, and encourages Asian American ministry leaders. With almost 30 years of ministry experience in Asian American churches, he shepherds those who are shepherding others. By providing a safe space for leaders to process, heal, and renew themselves, Sam comes alongside people to pursue greater wholeness and flourishing in life and ministry. He believes that the gospel is far more amazing than we've allowed ourselves to experience. Sam holds a B.A. in Economics and Psychology from UC Irvine, an M.A. in Economics from CSULB, an M.Div. from Talbot School of Theology, and is currently pursuing a D.Min. focused on Asian American spiritual formation. In his spare time, Sam likes to read, go on prayer walks, and spend time with his wife Susan and their two adult children. He currently resides in Fullerton, CA.

Rema Cheng is the Managing Director of Barnabas & Co., a nonprofit ministry that comes alongside Asian American faith leaders. Through cohorts, trainings, and one-on-one care, Barnabas & Co. pours into the leaders they serve, cultivating lives of flourishing, fruitfulness, and faithfulness in Christ. Rema’s background spans ministry, the mental health sector, and the nonprofit world. As a certified spiritual director, she is passionate about creating spaces where people can show up authentically and encounter the love of God. Whether in spiritual direction, at retreats, or in her home, Rema’s heart is for those around her to feel seen, safe, and cared for. Rema holds a B.A. in Ethnic Studies from UC Berkeley, an M.S.W. from Boston College, and a Certificate in Spiritual Direction from the PAX Center of Spiritual Formation. Living in Southern California with her husband and two kids, Rema enjoys reading, the outdoors, and boba milk tea.