Holding Space with Dr. Barker

Dr. Christopher Barker
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health

Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker is a psychology podcast focused on how unresolved complex trauma shapes daily life — from childhood through adulthood. Complex trauma isn’t only about major events. It develops through chronic stress, attachment wounds, emotional neglect, and relational instability. Over time, these survival adaptations can show up as ADHD-like symptoms in children, emotional dysregulation, workplace conflict, burnout, leadership struggles, relationship challenges, and intergenerational family patterns. Through the lens of EMDR therapy, attachment theory, neuroscience, and trauma-informed care, Dr. Barker explains how the nervous system learns to survive — and how healing becomes possible. Each episode offers research-based insight and practical tools for regulating triggers, improving relationships, and moving from survival mode to intentional living. Understanding your story is the beginning. Healing transforms how you live it. Welcome to Holding Space. https://substack.com/@christopherbarkerphd

  1. 1d ago

    More Than What Happened to You: Complex Trauma, Cancer and Identity with Cheyenne Heflin

    Cheyenne Heflin survived childhood abuse, stage-four osteosarcoma, an above-the-knee amputation, complicated grief, and a rare cancer recurrence—but her story is about more than survival. In this deeply personal episode, Cheyenne joins clinical psychologist Dr. Christopher Barker to explore how complex trauma can shape identity, self-worth, authenticity, and our relationship with our bodies. She shares how being labeled “strong” and “resilient” became an identity of its own—and how she began reclaiming the playful, vulnerable, imperfect, and authentic parts of herself that trauma taught her to hide. Together, Cheyenne and Dr. Barker discuss childhood cancer survivorship, medical trauma, grief after a complicated parental relationship, somatic healing, the pressure to make meaning from suffering, and the power of replacing “but” with “and”: You can be resilient and need help. You can be grateful and exhausted. You can be a survivor and still be so much more than what happened to you. CONTENT NOTE: This episode discusses childhood abuse, cancer, amputation, parental death, grief, and medical trauma. Connect with Cheyenne Heflin:Instagram: @resilient_akaWebsite: https://cheyenneheflin.com____________________________________________________________________________________ Learn more about Dr. Christopher Barker at https://www.drchristopherbarker.com. To invite Dr. Barker to speak at an event, university, organization, or podcast, email info@drchristopherbarker.com.

    More Than What Happened to You: Complex Trauma, Cancer and Identity with Cheyenne Heflin

  2. Jul 18

    Why We Sabotage Relationships: Childhood Trauma, Communication & Rebuilding Trust | Dr. Christopher Barker & Chris Fields

    Why do healthy relationships sometimes feel unsafe? Why do so many people unknowingly sabotage the love they want most? In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker sits down with relationship coach, former U.S. Marine, former private investigator, and NLP practitioner Chris Fields to explore the hidden psychological patterns that shape our closest relationships. Together they discuss: • Why childhood attachment patterns follow us into adulthood • How unresolved trauma creates hypervigilance and self-sabotage • The subconscious beliefs that quietly destroy relationships • Why communication breaks down—even between people who love each other • Emotional affairs, infidelity, and whether trust can truly be rebuilt • The role of shame in relationship conflict • Why knowing yourself is the foundation of lasting intimacy Whether you're healing from childhood trauma, navigating relationship struggles, or simply want to better understand yourself and your partner, this conversation offers practical insight grounded in psychology and real-world experience. Learn more about Chris Fields: https://mrcbfields.com/ To book Dr. Christopher Barker to speak at your university, organization, conference, or event, visit: 🌐 https://www.drchristopherbarker.com 📧 info@drchristopherbarker.com

    Why We Sabotage Relationships: Childhood Trauma, Communication & Rebuilding Trust | Dr. Christopher Barker & Chris Fields

  3. Jul 16

    How Childhood Sexual Abuse Shapes Identity—and How to Reclaim Yourself | Lisha Antiqua

    One of the deepest wounds of childhood sexual abuse isn't only the trauma itself—it's the identity that forms around it. In this powerful episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker sits down with trauma educator, author, and survivor Lisha Antiqua to explore how childhood sexual abuse shapes our sense of self, our relationships, emotional patterns, and the stories we carry long into adulthood. Rather than focusing solely on remembering traumatic events, this conversation explores what it means to rebuild identity, regulate the nervous system, and move toward genuine post-traumatic growth. Together they discuss: • Why childhood sexual abuse changes identity—not just memory • The connection between trauma, shame, and self-worth • Why survivors often struggle to feel happiness, joy, and accomplishment • How trauma influences future relationships and attachment patterns • Emotional intelligence and learning a new emotional language • The nervous system's role in healing • Why healing is about becoming who you truly are—not who trauma convinced you to be This episode is an honest, compassionate conversation for survivors, clinicians, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the long-term effects of trauma and the possibility of healing.  Guest: Lisha Antiqua Founder of Your Own University (Y.O.U.) Website: https://www.LishaAntiqua.com Business: ALL YOU Inc. DBA Your Own University Podcast: More Than Sex and Secrets Learn more about Dr. Christopher Barker: 🌐 www.drchristopherbarker.com 📩 info@drchristopherbarker.com Interested in being a guest on Holding Space? Email: info@drchristopherbarker.com

    How Childhood Sexual Abuse Shapes Identity—and How to Reclaim Yourself | Lisha Antiqua

  4. Jul 14

    How Childhood Trauma Shaped 30 Years of Depression, PTSD, and the Search for Healing | Dr. Noushin Hart

    Childhood trauma doesn't always disappear with time. Sometimes it quietly shapes our sleep, relationships, mental health, and even our physical well-being for decades. In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker sits down with physician and integrative healing practitioner Dr. Noushin Hart to discuss her extraordinary journey from surviving childhood sexual abuse and treatment-resistant depression to discovering hope after more than 30 years of searching for answers. After conventional treatments—including psychotherapy, antidepressants, EMDR, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)—failed to provide lasting relief, Dr. Hart began exploring integrative approaches that ultimately transformed her life. Together they discuss: • The hidden lifelong effects of childhood trauma • Complex PTSD, chronic insomnia, and treatment-resistant depression • Why healing isn't always linear • The connection between trauma, the nervous system, and physical illness • EMDR, MAP (Make Anything Possible), and other trauma healing approaches • Integrating traditional medicine with holistic healing • Why there is always hope, even after years of suffering Whether you're a mental health professional, trauma survivor, caregiver, or simply someone trying to better understand the long-term effects of adverse childhood experiences, this conversation offers compassion, curiosity, and a reminder that healing can take many different forms. Guest: Dr. Noushin Hart Business: Healing by Hart Websites: https://healingbyhart.com https://h2hcc.com Interested in being a guest on Holding Space? Email: info@drchristopherbarker.com

    How Childhood Trauma Shaped 30 Years of Depression, PTSD, and the Search for Healing | Dr. Noushin Hart

  5. Jul 9

    Trauma Healing, Generational Patterns, Relationships & Authentic Living with Laura Hoorweg

    How do trauma, family patterns, relationships, and modern technology shape who we become? In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker sits down with intuitive coach and spiritual counselor Laura Hoorweg for a thought-provoking conversation about trauma, authenticity, relationships, healing, and the growing loneliness epidemic.  Together they explore: ✔ Intergenerational trauma and ancestral patterns ✔ Birth trauma, attachment, and subconscious experiences ✔ Healing relationship patterns without re-traumatization ✔ Emotional abuse, gaslighting, and reclaiming self-worth ✔ Why awareness is the first step toward healing ✔ Nature as a tool for nervous system regulation and recovery ✔ Social isolation, loneliness, and the post-COVID world ✔ The impact of social media on relationships and dating ✔ Why young adults struggle with connection today ✔ Chosen family, community, and creating meaningful relationships ✔ Finding your authentic self beneath societal expectations Laura shares how wilderness, human connection, meditation, movement, and conscious awareness can become powerful pathways toward healing and self-discovery. Guest: Laura Hoorweg Intuitive Coach | Spiritual Counselor 🌐 Website: spiritspeaks2.me 📷 Instagram: @hoorweglaura 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/laura.hoorweg 👥 Community: facebook.com/groups/SpiritSpeaksToMe 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurahoorweg 🐦 X: @HoorwegLaura ▶️ YouTube: @laurahoorweg Hosted by Dr. Christopher Barker, Clinical Psychologist. For speaking engagements, university lectures, conferences, workshops, or media appearances: 📧 info@drchristopherbarker.com 🌐 www.drchristopherbarker.com Subscribe to Holding Space for conversations about trauma, attachment, mental health, healing, relationships, resilience, and human connection.

    Trauma Healing, Generational Patterns, Relationships & Authentic Living with Laura Hoorweg

  6. Jul 7

    High Performance Without Burnout: Reclaiming Agency in a Hustle Culture World | Tomide Akinola & Dr. Christopher Barker

    Are we pursuing success because it truly matters to us—or because society tells us we should? In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker sits down with Tomide Akinola to explore the hidden costs of hustle culture, chronic high performance, burnout, and the pressure to monetize every aspect of our lives. Together they discuss: • Why high achievement can become emotionally exhausting • The relationship between agency, autonomy, and mental health • How productivity culture disconnects us from ourselves • Burnout prevention strategies for professionals, students, and creatives • The importance of rest, balance, and self-awareness • Nervous system regulation and reclaiming control over our attention • Social media, digital overwhelm, and living beyond the algorithm • Finding meaning outside of financial success Tomide also introduces Reveal ( https://www.reviel.app/ ), a new app designed to help people reconnect with themselves, reduce digital overload, and cultivate healthier patterns of living. If you've ever felt trapped in productivity culture, struggled with burnout, or wondered how to reclaim your sense of agency, this conversation is for you. Guest: Tomide Akinola Host: Dr. Christopher Barker, Clinical Psychologist To inquire about Dr. Barker speaking at universities, conferences, organizations, or events: 📧 info@drchristopherbarker.com 🌐 www.drchristopherbarker.com Subscribe to Holding Space for conversations on trauma, attachment, mental health, relationships, and the psychology of living well.

    High Performance Without Burnout: Reclaiming Agency in a Hustle Culture World | Tomide Akinola & Dr. Christopher Barker

  7. Jun 30

    Breaking the Cycle of Childhood Trauma: Rosie Maloney on Abuse, Foster Care, Bipolar Recovery & Finding Hope | Holding Space

    What happens after you escape abuse? How do you rebuild a life when trauma has shaped your nervous system, relationships, identity, and sense of safety? In this deeply moving episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker sits down with Rosie Maloney, author of Girl Unbroken (HarperCollins, 2016), to explore survival, resilience, healing, and the power of small moments of connection. Rosie shares her extraordinary journey through severe childhood abuse, foster care system failures, family separation, and bipolar disorder—and how she ultimately broke the cycle of trauma while raising three children in a safe and loving home. Together they discuss: • Childhood trauma and its lifelong impact • Foster care and systemic failures • Bipolar disorder, treatment, and recovery • Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) • Breaking intergenerational cycles of abuse • Why healing is not linear • The importance of being seen, believed, and validated • Trauma-informed communities and Children's Justice Centers • How small acts of kindness can become life preservers • Finding hope after surviving profound adversity Rosie's message is simple yet powerful: "Your past does not define your future." Rosie is the author of Girl Unbroken and speaks to schools, professionals, and survivors about resilience, recovery, and creating lasting change. Follow her growing community on TikTok at @GirlUnbroke. If this conversation resonates with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who may need hope today. 📚 Guest: Rosie Maloney 📖 Girl Unbroken (HarperCollins, 2016) 📱 TikTok: @GirlUnbroke 🎙 Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker Dr. Christopher Barker is a clinical psychologist, speaker, and author helping people understand trauma, attachment, relationships, and emotional healing. 📧 Contact: info@drchristopherbarker.com 🌐 Hire Dr. Barker for your next speaking engagement: www.drchristopherbarker.com

    Breaking the Cycle of Childhood Trauma: Rosie Maloney on Abuse, Foster Care, Bipolar Recovery & Finding Hope | Holding Space

  8. Jun 23

    Leadership, Wellbeing & Self-Awareness: Dr. Audrey Tang on Confidence, Burnout Prevention, and Building Psychologically Safe Workplaces

    In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker sits down with renowned psychologist, leadership consultant, author, TEDx speaker, and wellbeing expert Dr. Audrey Tang for an insightful conversation about leadership, confidence, resilience, workplace wellbeing, and the power of self-awareness. Drawing from her work in organizational psychology, coaching, public speaking, and community wellbeing initiatives, Dr. Tang explains why many workplace wellbeing programs fail, how leaders can create psychologically safe environments, and why sustainable performance begins with confidence and agency—not perfection. Together, they explore burnout, resilience, trauma-informed leadership, workplace culture, the dangers of over-identifying with diagnoses, social media's impact on mental health, and why self-awareness may be the single most important skill for personal and professional growth. If you're a leader, therapist, coach, entrepreneur, HR professional, or someone seeking greater wellbeing and purpose, this conversation offers practical insights for creating healthier organizations and more meaningful lives.______________________________________ About Dr. Audrey Tang Dr. Audrey Tang is a psychologist, leadership consultant, wellbeing trainer, TEDx speaker, author, coach, media contributor, and host of the Mental Health Matters Podcast. Her work focuses on confidence, resilience, emotional wellbeing, leadership development, and helping individuals and organizations thrive. TEDx Talk:Appreciating Our Bodies Through Dancehttps://youtu.be/ziykVr_AxDg?si=-cxIuU-2giGV2Z3a Mental Health Matters Podcast & Media Channels:https://mentalhealthmatters.buzzsprout.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@WellbeingMediaStudio Books by Dr. Audrey TangThe Leader's Guide to Wellbeing (2023)The Leader's Guide to Resilience (2020)The Leader's Guide to Mindfulness (2018)Be A Great Manager Now (2016) *AVAILABLE ON AMAZON______________________________________________ Connect with Holding Space Website: www.drchristopherbarker.com Interested in being a guest on the podcast or having Dr. Barker appear on your show? Email: info@drchristopherbarker.com

    Leadership, Wellbeing & Self-Awareness: Dr. Audrey Tang on Confidence, Burnout Prevention, and Building Psychologically Safe Workplaces
See All (77)

About

Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker is a psychology podcast focused on how unresolved complex trauma shapes daily life — from childhood through adulthood. Complex trauma isn’t only about major events. It develops through chronic stress, attachment wounds, emotional neglect, and relational instability. Over time, these survival adaptations can show up as ADHD-like symptoms in children, emotional dysregulation, workplace conflict, burnout, leadership struggles, relationship challenges, and intergenerational family patterns. Through the lens of EMDR therapy, attachment theory, neuroscience, and trauma-informed care, Dr. Barker explains how the nervous system learns to survive — and how healing becomes possible. Each episode offers research-based insight and practical tools for regulating triggers, improving relationships, and moving from survival mode to intentional living. Understanding your story is the beginning. Healing transforms how you live it. Welcome to Holding Space. https://substack.com/@christopherbarkerphd

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Christopher Barker
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    77
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dr. Christopher Barker
  • Show Website
    Holding Space with Dr. Barker