Karel Karsten Himawan, M.Psi., Ph.D., Psikolog

Karel is a licensed clinical psychologist under the Allied Health Professions Council in Indonesia. He is an active committee member of Indonesian Association of Clinical Psychologist. Karel earned his Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Queensland. He currently serves as the Head of Department of the Undergraduate Psychology program at Universitas Pelita Harapan, and as a course coordinator for the Masters of Mental Health program at the University of Queensland.

Karel has extensive experience in diagnosing and providing counselling and psychotherapies to individuals, couples, and families. He works mostly with adolescents and adults who are struggling with various life adjustments. He is passionate in handling cases related to relationship issues, including singleness, dating, and marriage. He believes in the potential human capacities and the role of psychologists as a mirror to reflect, guide, and coach clients to the direction they deem best. He applies Reality Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in most of his professional practices. He is also a Prepare/Enrich Certified Facilitator.

In parallel with the interests of his professional practice, Karel is actively involved in various research projects about interpersonal relationship, particularly on how marriage and marital status affect an individual's well-being viewed through cross-cultural perspectives. He approaches the phenomenon using psychological, sociological, and anthropological perspectives by outlining an individual’s psychological dynamics in relation to feminism and masculinity, gender role, sexuality, quality of life, and religious beliefs and practices. His works have been published in several international reputable journals. His research is also showcased in RELASI Research Lab, where he is the core researcher.