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Holding Space with Dr. Barker
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 your clinical skills, you’ll find insightful discussions, evidence-based strategies, and expert guidance to support your journey.
Each week, Dr. Barker draws on his extensive training—including a Ph.D. from Seton Hall University, a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Radford University, and a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from The New School for Social Research—to explore topics like trauma recovery, emotional regulation, therapeutic techniques, and the art of holding space for others.
Join us for educational series, interviews with leading voices in the field, and practical tools designed to inspire personal discovery and professional transformation.
This is your space for reflection, learning, and connection.
Welcome to Holding Space.
Holding Space with Dr. Barker
Confirmation Bias Explained: Stop Letting Negative Thinking Control You
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 reinforce itself over time, leading to patterns that affect self-esteem, relationships, and mental health. He explores how confirmation bias shows up in everyday life, in personality disorders, and in conditions like depression and anxiety. Most importantly, he offers practical advice for shifting toward healthier thinking: keeping an open mind, considering positive alternatives, and practicing critical thinking. Whether you're dealing with self-doubt, navigating conflict, or simply wanting to improve your mindset, this episode offers insight and tools for breaking free from limiting beliefs.
Holding Space For You