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The Infinite Self

Cerebral Alchemy

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Unlock the depths of the human mind and embark on a journey beyond boundaries with The Infinite Self. Here, we don’t just explore psychology; we dive into the mysterious, the shadowy, and the transformative. Each episode unearths insights on the psyche, personal growth, and the paradoxes of existence, combining timeless wisdom with cutting-edge research. In this podcast, you’ll encounter a space where intellectual curiosity meets raw, unfiltered conversations.
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Search for Meaning

Batya Yaniger and Tani Burton

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Embark on a thought-provoking journey with Batya Yaniger and Tani Burton in their engaging and insightful podcast, "Search for Meaning". Together, they take you on an exploration of the very essence of being human, offering a profound and deeply enriching experience that will leave you pondering the mysteries of existence. In a world filled with noise and chaos, Batya and Tani aim to provide a sanctuary for meaningful discourse. Their show delves into universal themes that unite us all, offe ...
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Welcome to Holding Space with Dr. Barker—a podcast dedicated to fostering personal growth, emotional healing, and professional development. Hosted by Dr. Christopher Barker, a seasoned psychologist with over two decades of clinical experience, this podcast offers a thoughtful, compassionate space for meaningful conversations about mental health and psychotherapy. Whether you're on your own path toward greater self-awareness and well-being, or you're a fellow therapist committed to deepening ...
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Are you battling anxiety, plagued by persistent worries, or feeling trapped by obsessive thoughts? Do you sometimes feel a profound sense of meaninglessness, questioning the point of it all? In this episode, we explore powerful techniques and a compelling perspective on the human condition that can help you break free from these inner struggles and…
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During the stressful holiday season, psychologist Dr. Christopher Barker explores the timeless wisdom of Viktor Frankl and his groundbreaking theory of logotherapy, which teaches that meaning—not pleasure or power—is our core human drive. Drawing from Frankl’s experiences surviving concentration camps, Dr. Barker breaks down how purpose, attitude, …
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Have you ever felt held back by unseen forces within yourself? Like you're reacting in ways you don't fully understand, repeating patterns that leave you feeling unfulfilled or struggling in your relationships? In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of self-analysis, exploring how you can become your own guide to navigating the co…
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As 2025 comes to an end, Dr. Christopher Barker invites listeners to slow down, reflect, and reconnect during the holiday season. In this heartfelt Christmas Special of Holding Space, Dr. Barker explores the deeper meaning of the holidays — remembrance, community, and the simple miracle of human connection. He reminds us that humans are wired to co…
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Holding Space with Dr. Barker continues on the road from Anaheim, California, at the 40th Annual Evolution of Psychotherapy Conference. In this second installment, Dr. Christopher Barker shares key insights from renowned therapist Dr. Terry Real, creator of Relational Life Therapy (RLT) — a transformative approach that brings truth, love, and balan…
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Unlock the secrets of the psyche with this deep dive into psychoanalytic theory. Join us as we explore the intricate mechanisms behind neurosis and psychosis, informed by decades of clinical insight. We dissect the fundamental conflict between driving unconscious instincts and the ego's complex defence strategies, revealing how this internal battle…
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Welcome to Psyche Unpacked, where we explore the hidden complexities of the human mind. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of psychological defences, the ingenious, sometimes terrifying, ways our minds protect us from unbearable pain. We're not talking about simple coping mechanisms, but complex, often unconscious strategies developed in …
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Dr. Christopher Barker takes Holding Space on the road to Anaheim, California for the 40th Anniversary of the Evolution of Psychotherapy Conference — the largest gathering of mental health professionals in the world. In this special on-site episode, Dr. Barker shares insights from dynamic speaker Lynn Lyons, highlighting key discussions on adolesce…
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Are humans really designed for a single partner for life? Step beyond the romantic ideal and explore what cutting-edge research from anthropology, biology, and psychology reveals about our deepest mating drives. Evidence suggests that lifelong sexual monogamy is exceedingly rare in the animal kingdom and historically uncommon across many human soci…
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Unlock the profound secrets of the developing mind in this compelling episode as we delve into the emotional world of the infant. Drawing on decades of rigorous psychoanalytic observation and clinical experience, we explore the foundational experiences that shape our earliest emotional landscape and lay the groundwork for later psychological develo…
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Step into the tumultuous world of the British Psycho-Analytical Society during the Second World War, a period marked by intense intellectual debate and simmering personal conflict. This episode delves deep into the infamous Freud-Klein controversies, examining how fundamental disagreements over psychoanalytic theory and technique became intertwined…
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Join us for an insightful journey into the depths of the mind and the intricate world of psychoanalytic therapy. In this episode, drawing on the extensive clinical experience of a distinguished psychoanalyst, we explore the fascinating landscape of psychic experience and the challenging problems of technique faced by practitioners. Discover how the…
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Step into the complex and deeply human world of psychoanalysis, exploring how practitioners grapple with the lasting impact of early trauma – not just as abstract concepts, but as lived experiences that emerge powerfully within the therapeutic relationship. This episode delves into a significant tradition of psychoanalytic thought, tracing back to …
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In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker sits down with mental health expert and author Dr. Keith Morgen to explore the powerful connection between hope, resiliency, and mental health recovery. Dr. Morgen discusses why true healing requires shifting from “recovery from” past trauma or addiction to “recovery toward” meaning, purpose,…
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. This episode dives into the power of nonverbal communication using insights from the sources. We explore how different channels subtly convey vital information: The Voice: Pitch, loudness, duration, and quality reveal emotion, signal intent (including deception), and communicate aspects of personality and physical characteristics like age or size…
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Embark on a profound journey into the core of psychoanalytic understanding, guided by a perspective honed over decades of clinical practice and a lifelong quest to decipher the mind's deepest puzzles. This episode explores the nuanced art of uncovering meaning in the therapeutic process, emphasizing not just what patients learn, but how they learn …
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Step into the captivating world of nonverbal communication, an interdisciplinary field that spans psychology, communication, anthropology, and even zoology. Long before spoken language emerged, our ancestors were navigating the world and communicating through gestures, expressions, and other bodily cues. This episode delves into the rich history of…
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Step into the fascinating world of behavioral science, where we explore the fundamental principles that govern action, decision-making, and even what we remember. This episode delves into the core concepts of behavior analysis, drawing on extensive experimental research across species to reveal insights into both animal and human behavior. We begin…
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In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker revisits his powerful “tug-of-war with depression and anxiety” illustration to unpack what happens when mental health struggles start to pull you in. Using a vivid “pit” metaphor, he shows how some people stop resisting and emotionally throw themselves into their depression or anxiety, losing…
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In this short companion episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker teams up with intern Caesar Salas to demonstrate a powerful visual exercise for anyone who feels stuck in their emotions. Using a cord and an imaginary pit, Dr. Barker shows how depression, anger, or anxiety can feel like an endless tug-of-war that never truly resolves. Instea…
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Are you a practitioner, researcher, or student in psychology, education, medicine, or rehabilitation looking for rigorous, ethical, and effective ways to understand and change individual behaviour? Tired of relying solely on group averages that may not reflect the unique needs of your clients or participants? This episode is for you. We dive deep i…
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Explore the complex world of sexual deviance, paraphilias, and paraphilic disorders in this insightful episode. Drawing upon expert perspectives from the sources, we delve into the challenges of defining and classifying these conditions, moving beyond outdated categorical views to embrace a more dimensional understanding of sexual interests. Discov…
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Hi, I’m Dr. Christopher Barker, and whether you’re returning or joining Holding Space for the first time, I want to wish you a warm and meaningful Thanksgiving. This holiday may look different for many of us—because of loss, distance, family tensions, or simply the realities of travel and life. However your day unfolds, I hope you can create moment…
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Trauma is a pervasive human experience, reaching far beyond the traditional understanding of diagnoses like PTSD. Its profound influence creates complex, often hidden, challenges that ripple across the mind, body, and a person's connection with the world. This episode draws on expert knowledge to unpack these far-reaching effects and explore effect…
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Navigating challenging child behaviour is a common hurdle for parents and professionals alike. But how do you know when it's more than just a phase? This episode dives deep into Disruptive Behaviour Disorders (DBDs), focusing on Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD) in children and adolescents. We'll help you understand the …
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In this special episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker opens up about the unique challenges men face with their mental health, especially during Men’s Health Awareness Month. Citing sobering statistics—like men’s shorter life expectancy and significantly higher suicide rates—Dr. Barker addresses the powerful stigma preventing many men fro…
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Arguments aren't just for debates or classrooms; they're the hidden engine driving everything from compelling marketing campaigns to political discourse, scientific discoveries, and even our most important personal decisions. As a marketing professional with two decades in the trenches, I know the power of clear communication and sound reasoning – …
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Unlock your peak performance by understanding the hidden engine behind self-control. In this episode, we dive into the science that shows willpower isn't limitless – it's like a tank of mental energy that gets used up throughout your day. This concept, known as ego depletion, explains why resisting that tempting snack, focusing on a tough task, man…
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Borderline Personality Disorder, or BPD, is a complex and often misunderstood mental health challenge affecting millions. Far from being rare, it's one of the most common personality disorders seen in clinical settings, yet remains relatively unknown to the general public. This episode delves into the world of BPD, offering insight into what it is,…
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In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker, a New Jersey-based psychotherapist specializing in issues like narcissism, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum, kink awareness, and suicide prevention, dives deep into the concept of trigger warnings . He explores how the phrase trigger warning is used and often misunderstood, examining its ps…
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Welcome to an essential episode delving into the complex world of Impulse Control Disorders (ICDs). Ever wonder why some behaviours feel impossible to resist, even when we know they cause harm? We're talking about more than just everyday habits – we're exploring conditions like pathological gambling, hair pulling (trichotillomania), skin picking, c…
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Are you curious about why some behaviours become uncontrollable? Why do people struggle with urges to gamble, shop, use the internet, or pick their skin despite negative consequences? Tune in to explore the complex world of impulsivity and Impulse Control Disorders (ICDs). Drawing on extensive research, this episode delves into ICDs like Pathologic…
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Welcome to a deep dive into the fascinating and complex world of modern psychiatry. This episode explores how we approach mental health from multiple angles, integrating cutting-edge research with practical care. We delve into the importance of thorough assessment, including challenging areas like violence risk assessment in forensic settings and i…
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Welcome to THE INFINITE SELF, where we explore the intricate world of mental health. In this episode, we're taking a deep dive into some of the most challenging conditions: bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These aren't simple illnesses, and understanding them requires looking at multiple factor…
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In this eye-opening episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker breaks down one of the most misunderstood — and manipulative — behaviors in relationships: gaslighting. From subtle comments that make you question your memory to full-blown emotional control, gaslighting is a form of psychological abuse that can leave you doubting your sanity, yo…
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Welcome to THE INFINITE SELF, the podcast that explores the cutting edge of psychiatric and neurological health. In this compelling episode, we dive deep into the intricate world of brain disorders, offering a comprehensive look at conditions ranging from Substance Use Disorders and Addiction to complex Dementias and developmental challenges like A…
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Welcome to a deep dive into the complex landscape of mental healthcare. In this episode, we journey through the evolution of psychiatry, starting with the invaluable patient perspective. Understand the challenges faced by individuals, the crucial role of a compassionate doctor-patient relationship, and how effective communication can make a profoun…
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Are you or a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood swings, or other persistent mental health challenges? Have you tried traditional approaches based solely on symptom checklists and medication, only to find limited relief or unwanted side effects? It's time to explore a revolutionary new paradigm that looks beyond symptoms to th…
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In this powerful episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker welcomes Jackie Briggs, a professional singer whose life changed forever after a devastating car accident left her deaf in one ear. Jackie opens up about her journey through trauma, healing, and rediscovering her mental health after loss. Despite doctors advising her to give up her d…
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Step into the vibrant, often overlooked, world of 19th-century color theory! While Sir Isaac Newton's physics dominated the scientific view of color, a fascinating counter-movement was brewing in Germany. This episode explores the groundbreaking, yet initially forgotten, ideas of philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer and artist Philipp Otto Runge, alongs…
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Are you experiencing persistent anxiety, depression, unexplained physical symptoms, or challenges in relationships and career that feel disproportionate to your personal history? You might be carrying an unseen burden: inherited family trauma. This episode dives deep into the fascinating world of how the emotional and biological residue of traumati…
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Welcome to an episode that delves into one of life's most crucial, yet often misunderstood, skills: predicting human behaviour, particularly violence. Drawing on decades of expertise, we explore how to recognise the subtle, and sometimes not-so-subtle, warning signs that precede dangerous acts. Learn about the innate power of intuition, that rapid …
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Join us for a profound exploration that challenges conventional understanding and dives deep into the fundamental nature of reality. We often perceive the world as countless objects in space and time, governed by empirical laws. Yet, philosophy reveals this immediate reality is primarily a representation, existing only in the knowledge of a knowing…
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In this powerful episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker explores the lifelong impact of trauma and how it shapes our mental health, relationships, and sense of self. Drawing from his clinical experience and supervision discussions, Dr. Barker emphasizes that it’s never too late to heal — whether you’re 20 or 80. He unpacks how unresolved …
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Ever wondered how your brain makes sense of the vast, messy world around you? Every time you see something as a kind of thing – a tree, a chair, even an emotion – you're categorising. It feels simple, but the science reveals it's anything but. For centuries, we’ve been stuck on the idea that categories are like neat little boxes, defined by propert…
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Explore the core tenets of existential ethics, beginning with the fundamental paradox of the human condition. We are conscious subjects yet feel crushed by reality, inherently free yet bound by circumstance, alive yet constantly building towards death. Unlike philosophies that try to mask this complexity, existentialism confronts this 'tragic ambig…
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Are we facing a crisis in masculine identity? Many observers believe the answer is yes, noting the disappearing father figure and the breakdown of traditional family systems. This contributes to significant gender confusion, making it difficult to define what it means to be a man today. Without meaningful ritual processes to initiate boys into manh…
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In this insightful episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker, a licensed clinical psychologist in New Jersey, explores one of the most common and misunderstood questions in mental health: “What is normal?” Dr. Barker dives into how psychologists define “normal” not as a judgment of worth, but as a statistical and contextual concept — somethi…
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Step into the fascinating intersection of BDSM, kink, and depth psychology. This episode delves into the profound psychological significance of alternative sexualities, moving beyond outdated views of pathology to explore how these practices can be a pathway for personal growth and bringing soul into the world. Drawing on Jungian and archetypal per…
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Unlock the complex world of masochism, a psychological puzzle that challenges conventional understanding. This episode dives deep into recent research that moves beyond outdated theories viewing sexual masochism merely as mental illness or a derivative of sadism. Instead, we explore how masochistic desires and behaviors can be understood through th…
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