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Speaker, psychologist & bestselling author

Oliver James

Transform workplace wellbeing with Oliver James, speaker, psychologist and bestselling author. Oliver works with organisations to apply evidence-based psychological insights, family dynamics and emotional health strategies, delivering compelling expertise trusted by major media outlets and professional bodies.

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Oliver James, Speaker | British Psychotherapist & Author
Oliver James

Oliver James

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£6–10k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Book Oliver

London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£6–10k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Oliver James's biography

At a glance

  • Psychoanalytic psychotherapist and chartered psychologist
  • Bestselling author of Affluenza and Contented Dementia
  • Media personality with television series and newspaper columns
Oliver James is a chartered psychologist, psychoanalytic psychotherapist and prolific author whose work has consistently explored the powerful intersection between early childhood experiences, societal structures and mental health. Known for challenging established thinking in both scientific and political circles, he has spent decades bringing evidence-based psychological ideas to public attention through books, television, journalism and public speaking. Originally trained in child clinical psychology at the University of Nottingham, Oliver began his career in NHS mental health services before turning his attention to public discourse. His academic foundations include degrees in Social Anthropology and Psychology, as well as an honorary doctorate from the University of Staffordshire. He is a registered psychotherapist at the John Bowlby Centre and a chartered member of the British Psychological Society. Oliver’s central thesis, reflected across his bestselling books and media work, is that who we become is shaped more by our early environment and family dynamics than by our genes. His critiques of cognitive behavioural therapy, mainstream genetics and modern parenting methods have made him a prominent and often controversial voice in British psychological debate. He has also explored how political economies influence emotional well-being, with works like Affluenza and The Selfish Capitalist offering compelling arguments about the mental toll of consumerist culture. Beyond publishing, Oliver has produced and presented numerous television documentaries on mental health, parenting and British society, and contributed psychological commentary to major newspapers and broadcast programmes. He remains committed to reshaping how psychological ideas are understood and applied in everyday life, and his work continues to influence both public and professional conversations around emotional health, family dynamics and cultural values.

Oliver's showreel and videos

Why we recommend booking Oliver

Book Oliver James to transform your team's understanding of mental health with his evidence-based insights and practical solutions that challenge conventional wisdom. With decades of experience and a provocative perspective, James will equip your organization to navigate today's mental health challenges effectively—secure your booking now.

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Featured Projects

Oliver James - Affluenza book cover
Oliver James - Contented Dementia book cover
Oliver James - They F*** You Up book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Oliver James for my next event?
Email oliver.james@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Oliver's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
What is Oliver James's speaking style like?
Oliver James draws on decades of clinical practice and published research to construct arguments that link early childhood environment and family dynamics to adult mental health outcomes, referencing his own books and case studies to ground his points in evidence.
What topics does Oliver James specialise in?
Oliver James speaks on mental health and emotional well-being, the influence of early childhood and family dynamics on psychological development, and the relationship between consumerist culture and mental illness. He is a chartered psychologist, psychoanalytic psychotherapist and bestselling author, whose books include Affluenza and Contented Dementia.
What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, feel free to email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

Can I book podcast guests through PepTalk?

Yes. PepTalk books commercial podcast guests every week of the year. A high-profile voice can boost your podcast's reach and deliver ideas to your audience at scale. Fees typically start from £1,200 / $1,500, depending on the expert. Our network includes bestselling authors, industry leaders, and cultural figures who have appeared on leading global podcasts — and many host their own. Whether you want bold insights, candid stories, or deep expertise, we'll help you find the right guest to elevate your show.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.