Owen O’Kane

Owen is one of the UK’s most respected mental health experts, known for his exceptional ability to make complex psychological concepts accessible to a wide audience. A former NHS Clinical Lead and a Sunday Times Best Selling Author, Owen has built a reputation for delivering insightful, practical advice that resonates with people from all walks of life. He is a regular speaker at wellness festivals and conferences, where his talks are highly sought after for their clarity and impact.

In addition to his keynote speaking, Owen is skilled in creating and delivering workshops tailored for senior management teams. His work in this area is focused on fostering positive cultural shifts within organizations, particularly in addressing workplace stress and preventing burnout. Owen’s extensive experience as a media contributor further amplifies his influence, with hundreds of hours on TV, radio, and podcasts. He currently serves as the resident therapist on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Gordon Smart show, where he helps listeners manage the “Sunday Night Fear” as they prepare for the workweek.

Owen has now launched a new video series for the High Performance Podcast App and recorded a television pilot for BBC2 on therapy. He also completed his fourth book, set to be published by Penguin in early 2025. Owen’s background in Northern Ireland during “the troubles” and his early career in palliative care have profoundly shaped his understanding of trauma, anxiety, and the human experience. His mission is to help people live their best lives, particularly those who might not typically seek help. Owen is also a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and regularly collaborates with charities like Hospice UK and The Princess Trust to promote better mental health.