Holding Space with Dr. Barker

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

What is Holding Space with Dr. Barker?

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