.png)
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
Suicide Prevention: Warning Signs, How to Help, & Safety Planning | Holding Space with Dr. Christopher Barker
Trigger warning: this episode discusses suicide, self-harm, and mental health struggles.**
In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Christopher Barker (clinical psychologist, NJ) discusses Suicide Prevention Month, how to recognize warning signs of suicide, and practical steps anyone can take to help a person at risk. Dr. Barker explains common indicators (talking about dying, sudden mood changes, giving away possessions, preparing affairs), how to assess risk (directly asking about suicidal thoughts, checking for plans, access to lethal means, substance use, and prior attempts), and how to evaluate lethality. He covers safety planning strategies you can use right away — listing three people to call, restricting access to firearms/medication, writing down crisis numbers and hospital contacts, and creating a visible safety plan.
Dr. Barker emphasizes connection, reducing stigma, and following up (referrals and therapy). He names resources to include on safety plans, such as 988 (suicide & crisis lifeline) and calling 911 in emergencies. If you need local treatment options, Dr. Barker mentions Discovery Psychotherapy Center (973-796-3760).
If you have questions, topic suggestions, or want to share something privately, email Dr. Barker at barkerholdingspace@gmail.com
Holding Space For You