Dr. Ed Barker was born in Tokyo, Japan to parents serving in the U. S. Army. He has traveled extensively and spent nearly 20 years living and working in Sweden. He has studied or taught most of his life, serving as a teacher in the 7th through 9th grades and as a Guidance Counselor at the High School level, for which he holds Virginia State Licensure. He has also been a Director of Counseling, Dean of Students, and Faculty Member in the Behavioral Sciences at a variety of institutions. He is currently serving as Professor of Psychology and Chair of the Psychology Department and Coordinator of the Advanced Master’s Program in School Counseling in the School of Education at Liberty University. He holds graduate degrees from a variety of institutions, including a PhD in Counselor Education from the University of Iowa, a graduate degree in Jewish Studies from Oxford University, both a Master of Science and Education Specialist degrees in Guidance and Counseling from Fort Hays State University and is completing a dissertation for a Doctor of Ministry at Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary and is ABD for another PhD in Sweden.

His research interests are in the long-term effects and treatment of Childhood Abuse and in Crisis Intervention and Trauma. He is happily married to Dr Gina Barker and lives in the Lynchburg area with his three children and their families.