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Speaker & mental health expert

Owen O'Kane

Transform workplace mental health with Owen O'Kane, speaker and mental health expert. Owen works with organisations to build resilience, manage anxiety, and create psychologically safe cultures, delivering evidence-based strategies trusted by global leadership teams across 40+ countries.

Trusted by The King's Trust, Theo Paphitis Retail Group, Vodafone Business

Owen O’Kane, Speaker | Mental Health Expert & Author
Owen O'Kane

Owen O'Kane

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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London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£6–10k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

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Owen O'Kane's biography

At a glance

  • Bestselling Author of Four Books, Including Addicted to Anxiety
  • Former NHS Mental Health Clinical Lead
  • Speaker and Script Advisor on Mental Health
Owen O'Kane is one of the UK's most respected mental health experts, known for translating complex psychological ideas into practical tools anyone can use. A former NHS clinical lead for mental health, Owen has helped shape care at the highest levels — but it's his ability to connect deeply, personally, and powerfully with audiences that sets him apart. Owen has written four Sunday Times bestselling books, translated into more than 40 languages worldwide. His latest, Addicted to Anxiety, was an instant Sunday Times bestseller, sold into 23+ countries, and reframes anxiety as a form of emotional addiction, offering a fresh, compassionate roadmap for healing. A BBC Maestro and star of the TV show Change Your Mind, Change Your Life, Owen brings clinical expertise to a global audience far beyond the conference stage. His work draws from rich real-life experience: growing up during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, working as a palliative care specialist helping patients face their final days, and navigating the personal challenges of coming out in a Catholic family. These experiences give Owen's talks a rare authenticity and emotional impact. Today, Owen speaks globally at wellness festivals, leadership summits, and corporate events, equipping audiences with strategies for resilience, trauma awareness, and emotional wellbeing. He also designs workshops for senior leadership teams, helping organisations foster mentally healthy cultures from the top down. A trusted media voice, Owen has appeared in hundreds of TV, radio, and podcast episodes, consistently delivering clarity, warmth, and insight. Owen's work has reached millions through international book deals in over 40 countries, but his mission remains personal: helping people break free from fear, reconnect with themselves, and live more meaningful lives.

Owen's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

A Different Relationship With Stress And Anxiety
Owen O'Kane draws on twenty years of clinical experience as a psychotherapist to show audiences that good mental health is a skill, not a given. Cutting through the noise around wellness, Owen offers a practical, evidence-based framework for understanding the anxious mind, breaking negative thought patterns, and building daily routines that support lasting wellbeing. Audiences leave with concrete tools to manage stress, navigate crisis, and create a calmer, more resilient inner life.
Flexible Minds In An AI World
Owen O'Kane brings a psychotherapist's perspective to explain why people resist change in an AI-driven world and how to develop the flexible mindset needed to thrive within it. Combining psychology, neuroscience, and hard workplace data, he unpacks why fear and concern towards AI are not character flaws but predictable human responses. Owen introduces the concept of psychological flexibility, the clinically proven skill that allows people to stay calm, clear, and capable when the ground keeps moving. Practical, warm, and grounded in real evidence.
The Power Of Flexible Thinking
Owen O'Kane challenges the idea that positive thinking is the foundation of mental strength. Drawing on clinical psychology and his own experience as a psychotherapist, Owen introduces the science of flexible thinking — the ability to hold difficulty without being defined by it. He walks audiences through how the Threat, Drive, and Soothe systems quietly drive stress, overwhelm, and burnout, and explains why rigid optimism breaks under pressure where psychological flexibility holds. Audiences leave with practical micro-tools they can use immediately, alongside a clear message: your mental wellbeing is your responsibility — and that is a reason for hope, not anxiety.

Why we recommend booking Owen

Owen O'Kane offers your team expert insights into achieving better mental health, reducing stress, and enhancing productivity. His unique blend of experience and practical techniques empowers individuals with flexible thinking strategies, crucial for success in today's fast-paced work environment. Transform your workplace culture and drive success with Owen's guidance.

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Trusted by The King's Trust, Theo Paphitis Retail Group, Vodafone Business

Testimonials

Owen ran a series of interactive mental wellbeing sessions for Vodafone staff. The feedback from these sessions was incredible. I still regularly get colleagues talking about them today.

Alex Connors

Head of Corporate & Portfolio Strategy, Vodafone Business

Owen had fabulous chemistry with the audience during his warm up ad lib. He then had such a calming and confident presence hosting the awards ceremony. Owen was a joy to work alongside from start to finish.

Alicia Marson

Senior Event Executive

His content and engagement was fantastic. His session was by far the standout session of the day, and we wouldn't hesitate to book him again.

Jess Littlewood

Comms Director, Theo Paphitis Retail Group

Featured Projects

Owen O'Kane - Addicted To Anxiety book cover
Owen O'Kane - Ten Times Happier: How To Let Go Of What's Holding You Back book cover
Owen O'Kane - How To Be Your Own Therapist: Boost Your Mood And Reduce Your Anxiety In 10 Minutes A Day book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Owen O'Kane for my next event?
Email owen.o.kane@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 Owen'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 Owen O'Kane's speaking style like?
Owen O'Kane structures his sessions around a three-system psychological model — Threat, Drive, and Soothe — drawn from clinical psychology, which he uses to explain the mechanics of stress, burnout, and rigid thinking. He translates this framework into micro-tools audiences can apply immediately, grounded in his twenty years of psychotherapeutic practice and evidence from neuroscience and workplace research.
What topics does Owen O'Kane specialise in?
Owen O'Kane's sessions address stress and anxiety management, psychological flexibility in the context of AI and workplace change, and the science of flexible thinking as a foundation for mental resilience. He is the author of four Sunday Times bestselling books, including Addicted to Anxiety, and served as an NHS clinical lead for mental health.
Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

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 logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

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 comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

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 book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

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, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

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.