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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Dr Christopher Barker Podcasts
In this episode, Mr. Garrett Sutton, founder of Corporate Direct and Sutton Law Center, sheds some insight on what Corporate Direct is all about and how they can help protect your business. Mr. Sutton is one of the Rich Dad advisors for bestselling author Robert Kiyosaki. He has sold over a million books, many coming from the Rich Dad, Poor Dad wealth-building book series, that help guide entrepreneurs and investors. For more than 30 years, Mr. Sutton has run his practice assisting entrepren ...
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Self-Harm vs Suicidal Behavior in BPD: Understanding the Difference | Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker
13:24
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In this deeply compassionate episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker returns to expand on the criteria for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)—focusing on one of the most misunderstood and sensitive topics: recurrent suicidal behavior and self-harm. Dr. Barker draws a clear and vital distinction between suicidal intent and self-mutilatio…
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Confirmation Bias Explained: Stop Letting Negative Thinking Control You
9:18
9:18
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In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker, a clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience, breaks down confirmation bias—how we tend to focus only on evidence that supports our existing beliefs while ignoring anything that challenges them. Dr. Barker uses a visual "doorway" analogy to explain how negative thinking can reinf…
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Bipolar II vs Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): What’s the Difference? | Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker
15:52
15:52
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In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker answers a listener’s question that many people wonder: What’s the difference between Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)? While the two are often confused—especially Bipolar II and BPD—they are distinct diagnoses with different origins, symptoms, and treatments. Dr. Bar…
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Emotionally Immature Partners: Signs, Impact & Growth | Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker
11:42
11:42
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In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker explores the complex world of emotionally immature partners—what emotional immaturity looks like in relationships, how it impacts connection, and what you can do about it. Building on past discussions of emotionally immature parents and psychological development, Dr. Barker breaks down the ke…
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Break the Cycle: Communicate Smarter with Transactional Analysis
11:19
11:19
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Welcome to Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker. In this episode, Dr. Barker dives deep into a classic and still-relevant psychological concept: Transactional Analysis—and why understanding it might be the key to healthier, more productive relationships. With over 25 years of experience as a psychologist, Dr. Barker unpacks how we subconscious…
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The Cassandra Dilemma: Why Knowing Isn’t Enough (Even for Therapists)
10:43
10:43
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Welcome back to Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker. In this powerful and introspective episode, Dr. Barker explores a unique psychological concept he calls “The Cassandra Dilemma.” Drawing from over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Barker shares what he believes is the hardest part of being a therapist—not burnout or long hours—but watch…
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In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of Holding Space with Dr. Barker, Dr. Christopher Barker explores the growing use of artificial intelligence in therapeutic settings—and the serious ethical, emotional, and psychological implications that come with it. Trigger warning: this episode discusses suicide, reality distortion, and emotional m…
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Conflicting Attachment Styles & How to Communicate Through Them
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In this insightful episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker welcomes therapist and former student Irene Sullivan to explore how conflicting attachment styles—especially anxious and avoidant patterns—can disrupt connection in relationships. Together, they discuss the emotional dance between co-regulators and self-regulators, the power of cle…
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Welcome back to Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker! In this episode, Dr. Barker deepens our exploration of attachment styles—those foundational behavioral patterns that shape the way we connect, love, and relate to others. Building on the previous discussion, he revisits the four classic attachment styles—secure, anxious, avoidant, and disor…
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Understanding Attachment Styles: Secure, Anxious, Avoidant & Disorganized | Holding Space with Dr. Barker
11:56
11:56
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In this insightful episode of Holding Space with Dr. Barker, clinical psychologist Dr. Christopher Barker explores the psychology of attachment styles—a concept rooted in developmental and relationship psychology that's gained significant attention in recent years. Drawing on foundational research by Mary Ainsworth and Bowlby’s attachment theory, D…
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Understanding Psychopathy, Sociopathy, and Functional Psychopaths | Holding Space Podcast
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Welcome back to Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker. In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Barker explores the traits of psychopathy, sociopathy, and antisocial personality disorder—shedding light on what these terms really mean, how they manifest in everyday life, and the concept of the "functional psychopath." From empathy deficits to the …
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Are We All on a Spectrum? Understanding Autism, Bipolar, and Beyond | Holding Space Podcast
13:29
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Welcome back to Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker. In this episode, Dr. Barker explores the idea that many mental health and behavioral conditions exist on spectrums—from autism and bipolar disorder to personality traits and relationship dynamics. He breaks down the characteristics of autism spectrum behaviors, bipolar type 1 and 2, and eve…
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Stress vs. Anxiety: Knowing the Difference & Calming the Storm
11:21
11:21
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In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker is joined by intern Julia Bellotti for an honest conversation about the differences between stress, anxiety, and panic attacks. Julia shares a personal story of navigating a panic attack while driving, and together, they discuss simple, effective techniques for managing overwhelming feelings—…
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From White Rats to Real Life: Understanding Phobias and How to Unlearn Fear
14:46
14:46
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In this eye-opening episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker explores the psychology of phobias—from how irrational fears are formed to how they can be effectively treated. With examples ranging from a child’s fear of John Wilkes Booth to the classic "Little Albert" experiment, Dr. Barker breaks down the behavioral roots of fear using real-…
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Embracing the Feeling: Mindfulness, Values & Acceptance
15:53
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In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker explores why trying to eliminate uncomfortable emotions like anxiety or depression may do more harm than good. Drawing on the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and Zen philosophy, he invites listeners to reframe their relationship with feelings by embracing t…
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Epigenetic's, Trauma, and Learning to Accept Yourself
18:17
18:17
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Dr. Christopher Barker explores how trauma can be biologically passed through generations — and how embracing imperfection is key to healing. From stress hormones to attachment styles, this episode of Holding Space dives into how we’re shaped by the past, but not defined by it. Healing begins with understanding, acceptance, and honest conversation.…
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Trauma-Induced Narcissism: The Mask, The Mirror, and the Wound
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In this deeply insightful episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker explores the often-misunderstood connection between trauma and narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Dr. Barker unpacks how narcissism can develop as a defense mechanism when trauma fractures a person’s sense of identity — leading to a constructed image they will do anyth…
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Tailoring Trauma Healing: The Power of Integrative Therapy
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16:39
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16:39
In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Barker explores the versatile world of integrative therapy for trauma, emphasizing that “one size doesn’t fit all.” Drawing on his psychodynamic roots in object relations, he explains how early caregiver bonds shape later relationships and why a broad therapeutic toolkit—CBT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and somatic…
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Navigating Complex Trauma: Understanding Dissociation, PTSD, and the Journey to Healing
22:10
22:10
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22:10
In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Barker explores the multifaceted nature of trauma, with a focus on complex trauma that often begins in childhood. He explains how repeated exposure to traumatic experiences—such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence, and other interpersonal stressors—can lead to long-term psychological effects, including severe …
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Understanding Trauma Therapy: EMDR, Internal Family Systems & DBT
19:24
19:24
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In this episode, we explore different therapeutic approaches to trauma, focusing on EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)—a widely recognized treatment for PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and other trauma-related disorders. We discuss how EMDR works, the science behind it, and why proper training is essential for therapists who…
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Welcome To Holding Space: Intro To Trauma
13:09
13:09
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In this episode of Do It, psychologist Christopher Barker introduces his new series, Holding Space. With over 15 years of experience in psychology and teaching, Christopher explores what it means to "hold space"—being fully present and supportive without judgment. This first episode dives into the complex topic of trauma: what it is, how it impacts…
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In this episode, Christopher Lovett, founder of (R)evolution Engineering, shares how he got to where he is today and how he built his business into the top 5% of all small businesses in the US! Show notes: [2:26] (R)evolution Engineering, top 5% of all small businesses in the US! [3:15] How Chris arrived to where he is today and how (R)evolution En…
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In this episode, Michèle Kline, founder of Kline Hospitality, goes into detail about her journey to becoming an entrepreneur and what ultimately lead her to start Kline Hospitality. Michèle is an international bestselling author of 6 books that promote self-development and a mindset of success. She is an international bestselling author of 6 books …
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In this episode, Mr. Garrett Sutton, founder of Corporate Direct and Sutton Law Center, sheds some insight on what Corporate Direct is all about and how they can help protect your business. Mr. Sutton is one of the Rich Dad advisors for bestselling author Robert Kiyosaki. He has sold over a million books, many coming from the Rich Dad, Poor Dad wea…
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In this episode, Dr. Jessica Barker and FC (Freaky Clown), founders of Cygenta, give us insight on what their business is all about and why cyber security is so important. Jessica, author of Hacked: Uncovering the Strategies and Secrets Behind Cyber-Attacks, and FC, author of How I Rob Banks and Other Such Places, are both best-selling authors, key…
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In this episode, Dr. Pauline Crawford, Director at the International Univerisity of Entreprenology and Chief Visionary Officer at Corporate Heart International, gives us insight on how she got to where she is today and how she manages all the positions and titles. Designer of the Gender Dynamics Intellegence Map, Dr. Crawford is an advocate for the…
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In this episode, the one and only, Dr. Jeffrey Magee, joins us to share what goes into being a Human Capital Developer. How he became one of today's leading Leadership and Marketing Strategists. His approach to advising and developing some of the elite business men and women in today's world. And how he has successfully helped massive businesses al…
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In this episode, Marcus Svedin, Co-Founder and CEO of Titan Marketer, dives into the value of YouTube advertising and the impact they can have on your business. Marcus, Industrial Electrician turned Marketing expert, gives us a step-by-step process to ensure your YouTube ad is designed perfectly for your business and speaks directly to your avatar …
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In this episode, Brooks Smith, President and Owner of ChopValue, drops some insight on what ChopValue is all about and how he came about owning the Las Vegas franchise. Brooks outlines what it takes to owning a franchise, the challenges that come with it, and the fullfillment that helping out the environment can give someone. Show notes: [2:25] Bro…
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In this episode, Jim McClenahan takes us through what it takes to be an Executive Director of Outreach and Engagement at the University of Nevada. Jim goes in depth about what it takes to set yourself apart from the competition to land a job, how companies can land top talent from the university, and what he believes are the top qualities of a grea…
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In this episode, Tim Schneider gives an incredible insight on what Aegis Learning is all about and how he became an inspirational speaker and leadership development coach. Tim also explains what he believes are a few qualities great leaders should possess and why a support system is so important to have when in leadership roles. Show notes: [1:35] …
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In this episode, Sean Nichols shares how he got to where he is today. Why he decided to get into business and start his own company, Dragonfly Energy. Sean also touches on what he looks for when hiring for high level positions and gives some excellent advice on how to be a great leader. Show notes: [1:20] Sean shares more about his experience and D…
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In this episode, Tom Simpkins shares with us how he got to where he is today. He explains the importance of having mentors and how to be a mentor yourself. As well as gives some insight on what the future of automation looks like and what future leaders of Nevada should do to obtain those types of positions. Show Notes: [1:32] Tom shares more about…
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