Oliver James - Speaker

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.