Why We Never Feel ‘All Clear’: Understanding Complex Trauma

Dr. Christopher Barker, a licensed clinical psychologist and host of Holding Space, shares exciting news about his upcoming book on complex trauma, written from a deeply personal and relational attachment lens. He explores how complex trauma isn’t just “big T” events, but also the chronic, subtle experiences of uncertainty, emotional neglect, poor attachment, and always waiting for “the other shoe to drop.” Through his own story and de-identified clinical vignettes, Dr. Barker explains how growing up without consistent emotional safety shapes our nervous system, creates lifelong hyper-vigilance or dissociation, and impacts how we relate, remember, and feel safe in the world. This off-the-cuff episode invites listeners into his writing process, his passion for trauma-informed care, and why even late-in-life healing—finally feeling an “all clear”—is still worth it. If you’re interested in complex trauma, attachment, EMDR, and how therapy can help rebuild a sense of safety, this episode sets the stage for a powerful book you won’t want to miss.

Questions or Topic Ideas? Want to be a guest? Email us at: BarkerHoldingSpace@gmail.com