Anxiety Speakers
You've got an audience hungry for real talk about mental health, but finding someone who can speak about anxiety with both expertise and empathy? That's the tough part.
Maybe you've searched online, asked around, or sat through a few talks that just didn't land. So how do you find the right anxiety speakers who actually connect with people and don't just repeat stats or surface-level tips?
That's exactly what this guide helps you figure out.
You'll get a feel for what strong anxiety speakers actually bring to the table, why authenticity matters more than polish, and which ones are right for your event or show.
Whether you're programming a wellness summit, hosting a mental health podcast, or planning a panel for your company's internal talks, you want guests who can speak to anxiety in a way that's grounded, useful, and real.
I've seen how the best speakers in this space don't just inform - they make people feel seen.
Explore the featured anxiety speakers below and find someone who'll bring both insight and presence to your audience.
Top Anxiety Speakers List for 2025
Deborah Higgins
Author of A Cure for Anxiety: Biblical Truths and Metaphysical Practices to Overcome Anxiety, Panic, Social Anxiety and Agoraphobia
Elizabeth Estrada
Happiness SOS: Your happiness can save your life - an emergency professional shares the process
Kristina Orlova
All things ocd with OCD Whisperer Host Kristina Orlova.
Jade Celeste
Ayurvedic Practitioner & Counsellor, blending Ayurveda and modern healing to support anxiety, trauma, and emotional well-being.
Vicki Smith
Empowering entrepreneurs to thrive from within
Robin Owen
Helping you speak with confidence and leave a lasting impression
Holly Nelson
Sex therapist who's not afraid to talk about the hard stuff (pun intended).
Aileen Xerri
Describing myself in 1 sentence is hard as there are many layers to me but I would say.... passionate, enthusiastic, loyal, friendly etc
Ben Sykes
From Hollywood Sets & Combat Zones to Building Products at Google
What Makes a Great Anxiety Speaker
Take someone like Dr. Jud Brewer, a neuroscientist and mindfulness expert. He doesn't just explain the science of anxiety-he breaks it down in a way that makes you feel like you're in control again. That's the mark of a great anxiety speaker: they empower, not overwhelm. They don't just share stories-they create space for others to reflect on their own.
Another key trait? Authenticity. Audiences can smell rehearsed vulnerability from a mile away. The best anxiety speakers are the ones who've done the inner work and are willing to share their journey without turning it into a performance. They're not trying to be heroes. They're trying to be human.
And finally, great anxiety speakers tailor their message to the room. A corporate audience in Tokyo might need a different tone than a high school assembly in Texas. Cultural awareness, emotional intelligence, and adaptability all come into play. It's not about having one killer keynote-it's about knowing how to meet people where they are.
So if you're looking for someone to speak on anxiety, don't just ask what they've done. Ask how they make people feel. That's where the magic lives.
How to Select the Best Anxiety Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience and Goals
- Who are you speaking to? Entrepreneurs, students, HR professionals?
- What do you want them to walk away with-tools, inspiration, awareness?
- Example: A startup founder audience might resonate with a speaker like Mo Gawdat, who blends emotional intelligence with tech-world relevance.
2. Search Strategically
- Use platforms like Talks.co to browse speaker profiles by topic and style.
- Look for anxiety speakers who have experience with your type of audience.
- Check out their past talks, testimonials, and social media presence.
3. Evaluate Content Fit
- Watch at least two full-length talks or interviews.
- Ask: Do they offer practical takeaways, or is it all storytelling?
- Tip: Look for speakers who balance vulnerability with actionable advice.
4. Check for Cultural and Contextual Fit
- Will their tone and language resonate with your audience?
- Are they sensitive to regional or industry-specific nuances?
- Example: A speaker who references Western therapy models might need to adapt for a Middle Eastern audience.
5. Reach Out for a Discovery Call
- Use the contact form on their Talks.co speaker page or LinkedIn.
- Ask about their process, customization options, and availability.
- Bonus: A great anxiety speaker will ask you questions too-they care about fit.
Selecting the right speaker is part art, part strategy. Take your time, do your homework, and trust your gut when it clicks.
How to Book a Anxiety Speaker
1. Start with a Shortlist
- Use Talks.co or speaker directories to create a shortlist of 3-5 speakers.
- Look for alignment in tone, topic, and audience experience.
2. Reach Out with a Clear Brief
- Include your event date, audience type, format (keynote, panel, workshop), and your goals.
- Be upfront about budget range. This saves time for both sides.
- Tip: Use the messaging feature on the speaker's Talks.co page to keep things centralized.
3. Schedule a Discovery Call
- Use this time to ask about their approach, customization options, and past experience.
- Ask how they handle Q&A, tech requirements, and sensitive topics.
- Example: A speaker like Dr. Ellen Hendriksen might offer a pre-event survey to tailor her content.
4. Finalize the Agreement
- Once you've agreed on terms, request a speaker agreement or contract.
- Make sure it includes cancellation terms, payment schedule, and content rights (e.g., can you record the session?).
5. Prep for Success
- Share event details, audience insights, and tech setup at least two weeks in advance.
- Offer a pre-event run-through if it's virtual.
- Promote the speaker on your channels-they'll likely do the same.
Booking a speaker is more than a transaction-it's a collaboration. The more you invest in the process, the better the outcome for your audience.
Common Questions on Anxiety Speakers
What is a anxiety speaker
Unlike general motivational speakers, anxiety speakers focus specifically on the emotional, psychological, and sometimes physiological aspects of anxiety. This could include topics like panic attacks, social anxiety, workplace stress, or coping mechanisms. Some are licensed professionals-like psychologists or therapists-while others are advocates, authors, or individuals with lived experience.
The key distinction lies in their depth of focus. Anxiety speakers don't just mention anxiety in passing-they dive into it. They explore its triggers, its impact on daily life, and the tools people can use to manage it. For example, someone like Chloe Brotheridge, who blends hypnotherapy with coaching, offers both insight and practical strategies.
These speakers often tailor their message to the audience. A talk for high school students might focus on exam stress and social pressure, while a corporate session might address burnout and performance anxiety. The format can vary too-from TED-style keynotes to interactive workshops.
Ultimately, an anxiety speaker is a communicator who helps people better understand and navigate anxiety. Whether through science, storytelling, or strategy, they create space for meaningful conversations that lead to real change.
Why is a anxiety speaker important
Anxiety speakers serve as translators between clinical jargon and everyday experience. They take complex psychological concepts and make them accessible to diverse audiences. Whether it's a team of remote workers in Berlin or a classroom of teens in Nairobi, the right speaker can bridge knowledge gaps and spark real conversations.
They also play a crucial role in reducing stigma. In many cultures, mental health is still taboo. When someone stands up and says, 'I've struggled with anxiety, and here's how I manage it,' they normalize the conversation. This is especially powerful in professional settings where vulnerability is often seen as weakness.
From a business perspective, anxiety speakers can improve workplace culture. Companies like Google and Deloitte have brought in mental health speakers to support employee well-being, reduce burnout, and boost productivity. It's not just about being 'woke'-it's about being smart.
In short, anxiety speakers help people feel less alone, more informed, and better equipped to take action. And in a world where anxiety is on the rise, that kind of support isn't optional-it's essential.
What do anxiety speakers do
First, they research and tailor their content. A great anxiety speaker doesn't deliver the same talk to a group of high schoolers that they would to a team of HR managers. They assess the audience's needs, cultural context, and event goals to craft a message that resonates.
Second, they share stories-often their own. Whether it's a personal journey through generalized anxiety disorder or a professional perspective as a therapist, these stories create emotional connection and trust. Speakers like Sarah Wilson, author of 'First, We Make the Beast Beautiful,' use storytelling to make complex feelings relatable.
Third, they provide practical strategies. This might include breathing techniques, journaling prompts, or frameworks like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) principles. These tools give the audience something to walk away with-something they can use immediately.
Fourth, they engage. Anxiety speakers often lead Q&A sessions, facilitate workshops, or participate in panels. Their role is interactive, not just performative. They listen as much as they speak.
And finally, they follow up. Many offer resources post-event-PDF guides, recommended reading, or access to online communities. Some even offer coaching or consulting for deeper support.
In essence, anxiety speakers are educators, storytellers, and facilitators rolled into one. They don't just talk about anxiety-they help people move through it.
How to become a anxiety speaker
1. Define Your Unique Perspective.
- Are you speaking from personal experience, clinical expertise, or both? Clarify your angle.
- Example: If you've overcome social anxiety, your talks might focus on confidence-building strategies.
2. Build Your Knowledge Base.
- Stay informed on the latest research, tools, and trends in mental health and anxiety treatment.
- Consider certifications or training in public speaking, coaching, or psychology.
3. Craft Your Signature Talk.
- Develop a compelling keynote or workshop that addresses a specific problem your audience faces.
- Tip: Use storytelling frameworks. Think of TEDx talks-start with a personal hook, then deliver value.
4. Create a Speaker Page.
- Set up a professional speaker profile on platforms like Talks.co to showcase your bio, topics, testimonials, and videos.
- Include a downloadable one-sheet and clear contact info for event organizers.
5. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Offer to speak at local schools, community centers, or online summits.
- Use these gigs to collect testimonials, refine your message, and build confidence.
6. Network with Hosts and Event Planners.
- Use Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts, summit organizers, and conference planners.
- Join speaker directories and mental health networks to stay visible.
7. Promote Yourself Consistently.
- Share clips, quotes, and behind-the-scenes content on LinkedIn, Instagram, or YouTube.
- Host your own webinars or virtual events to grow your audience.
Becoming an anxiety speaker is a journey-but with the right steps, you can turn your voice into a platform for change.
What do you need to be a anxiety speaker
First, you need a clear message. Anxiety is a broad topic, so you'll want to niche down. Are you focusing on workplace anxiety, teen anxiety, or anxiety in athletes? A targeted message helps you stand out and reach the right audience.
Second, you need credibility. This can come from lived experience, professional training, or both. If you've personally dealt with anxiety, your authenticity is powerful. If you're a therapist, coach, or researcher, your expertise adds weight. Many speakers blend both-sharing personal stories backed by science or strategy.
Third, you need speaking skills. You don't have to be Tony Robbins, but you do need to communicate clearly and confidently. Practice is key. Join a local Toastmasters group, take a public speaking course, or rehearse with a coach. Record yourself and refine your delivery.
Fourth, you need a platform. This is where Talks.co comes in. Set up a speaker page that includes your bio, speaking topics, testimonials, and a short video. This makes it easy for event organizers to book you.
Finally, you need connections. Reach out to podcast hosts, summit organizers, and mental health communities. Offer to speak for free at first to build your reputation. As your experience grows, so will your opportunities.
In short, to be an anxiety speaker, you need a message that matters, the skills to deliver it, and the tools to get it heard.
Do anxiety speakers get paid
Many anxiety speakers start by speaking for free, especially when building their brand. But as they gain credibility, they can command fees ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per event.
Here are some typical scenarios:
- Free or Low-Paid Gigs: Community events, podcasts, or local panels. These are great for exposure and testimonials.
- Mid-Range Gigs ($500-$2,000): Corporate wellness programs, school assemblies, or online summits.
- High-End Gigs ($5,000-$20,000+): Keynotes at national conferences, government events, or Fortune 500 wellness retreats.
Factors that influence pay:
- Experience: New speakers earn less than seasoned pros.
- Audience Size: Larger events usually have bigger budgets.
- Format: Workshops and training sessions often pay more than short keynotes.
- Location: Urban centers and international events may offer higher fees.
According to SpeakerHub and other industry sources, mental health speakers earn an average of $2,000-$10,000 per talk once established. Talks.co helps speakers connect with paid opportunities by showcasing their profile to event hosts actively looking for experts.
So yes, anxiety speakers get paid-but it takes strategy, positioning, and persistence to reach the higher tiers.
How do anxiety speakers make money
1. Speaking Engagements
- Keynotes, workshops, panels, and webinars.
- Paid gigs at schools, corporations, conferences, and nonprofits.
- Example: A speaker might earn $3,000 for a 60-minute keynote at a university mental health week.
2. Online Summits and Virtual Events
- Hosting or participating in virtual events via platforms like Talks.co.
- Speakers can earn affiliate commissions, speaker fees, or backend sales.
3. Courses and Coaching
- Many anxiety speakers offer online programs or 1:1 coaching.
- Example: A speaker might create a 6-week course on managing anxiety in the workplace, priced at $297 per student.
4. Books and Digital Products
- Ebooks, audiobooks, guided journals, or meditation tracks.
- These products provide passive income and establish authority.
5. Sponsorships and Brand Deals
- Partnering with wellness brands, mental health apps, or nonprofits.
- Example: A speaker might be paid to mention a mindfulness app during a talk or podcast.
6. Consulting and Corporate Training
- Offering tailored programs for HR departments or leadership teams.
- These contracts can be lucrative, especially in high-stress industries like tech or finance.
7. Membership Communities
- Some speakers build paid communities for ongoing support and content.
- Example: A $20/month membership with weekly live Q&As and resources.
The key is to build a brand that extends beyond the stage. Talks.co helps by connecting anxiety speakers with event hosts and giving them a platform to showcase all their offerings.
How much do anxiety speakers make
Entry-Level Speakers
- Often speak for free or for small honorariums ($100-$500).
- Focus is on gaining experience, testimonials, and exposure.
- Annual income: $0-$10,000.
Mid-Level Speakers
- Have a defined niche and some speaking history.
- May charge $1,000-$5,000 per talk.
- Supplement income with coaching or online courses.
- Annual income: $20,000-$75,000.
Established Speakers
- Recognized experts with media features or bestselling books.
- Charge $5,000-$20,000+ per keynote.
- Often have multiple income streams (courses, books, consulting).
- Annual income: $100,000-$500,000+.
Top-Tier Speakers
- Global names like Brené Brown or Dr. Gabor Maté.
- Command $30,000+ per event, often booked months in advance.
- Income includes royalties, licensing, and high-end consulting.
- Annual income: $500,000 to several million.
Variables That Affect Income
- Region: Speakers in North America and Europe tend to earn more.
- Industry: Corporate gigs pay more than schools or nonprofits.
- Format: Workshops and trainings often pay more than keynotes.
So while the average anxiety speaker might earn $2,000-$10,000 per month once established, the ceiling is high for those who build a strong brand and diversify their offerings.
How much do anxiety speakers cost
Speaker Level | Event Type | Typical Fee Range |
---|---|---|
Emerging Speaker | Local schools, podcasts | $0 - $500 |
Mid-Level Speaker | Online summits, HR events | $1,000 - $5,000 |
Experienced Speaker | Conferences, corporate gigs | $5,000 - $15,000 |
Celebrity Speaker | Global events, keynotes | $20,000 - $50,000+ |
- Travel & Accommodation: Some speakers charge extra for travel, while others bundle it into their fee.
- Customization: Tailored workshops or industry-specific talks may cost more.
- Duration: A 20-minute keynote costs less than a full-day training.
Virtual vs. In-Person
- Virtual talks are often 30-50% cheaper due to lower overhead.
- Example: A speaker who charges $7,000 for an in-person keynote might charge $4,000 for a virtual one.
Booking Platforms
- Using Talks.co can help you find speakers within your budget and see transparent pricing upfront.
So whether you're a school with a tight budget or a corporation planning a wellness week, there's likely an anxiety speaker who fits your needs-and your price range.
Who are the best anxiety speakers ever
- Dr. Gabor Maté: A renowned physician and author, Maté speaks about trauma, addiction, and anxiety with deep compassion and insight. His talks blend science and humanity.
- Brené Brown: While best known for her work on vulnerability, Brené's insights into shame and anxiety have resonated with millions. Her TED Talk has over 60 million views.
- Ruby Wax: A UK-based comedian turned mental health advocate, Ruby brings humor and honesty to her talks about anxiety and depression.
- Dan Harris: Former ABC anchor and author of '10% Happier', Harris speaks about his own panic attack on live TV and how mindfulness helped him manage anxiety.
- Elizabeth Gilbert: The 'Eat Pray Love' author often speaks about fear and anxiety in the creative process, offering relatable wisdom for audiences worldwide.
- Tim Ferriss: Known for 'The 4-Hour Workweek', Ferriss has openly discussed his struggles with anxiety and depression, using his platform to advocate for mental health.
- Mariel Hemingway: Granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway, Mariel speaks about her family's history with mental illness and her personal journey with anxiety.
- Kevin Hines: A suicide survivor who now speaks globally about mental health, resilience, and anxiety recovery.
These speakers have not only shared their personal stories but also shifted public perception around anxiety, making them some of the most influential voices in the space.
Who are the best anxiety speakers in the world
- Jay Shetty (UK/US): Former monk turned motivational speaker, Jay blends Eastern philosophy with modern psychology. His talks on anxiety and purpose have reached millions.
- Dr. Julie Smith (UK): A clinical psychologist with a massive social media following, Dr. Smith breaks down anxiety science into digestible, relatable advice.
- Johann Hari (UK): Author of 'Lost Connections', Hari explores the societal roots of anxiety and depression. His TED Talk has over 80 million views.
- Mel Robbins (US): Known for the '5 Second Rule', Mel speaks about anxiety, fear, and taking action. She's a favorite at corporate events and women's leadership summits.
- Haesun Moon (Canada): A solution-focused coach and speaker, Moon brings a practical, culturally sensitive approach to anxiety and communication.
- Anxiety Coaches Podcast Team (Global): Gina Ryan and her team have built a global audience by offering practical tools for anxiety management through speaking and podcasting.
- Dr. Saliha Afridi (UAE): A clinical psychologist and founder of The LightHouse Arabia, Dr. Afridi is a leading voice on anxiety in the Middle East.
- Kelsey Darragh (US): A comedian and content creator who speaks candidly about living with panic disorder and anxiety, especially among Gen Z audiences.
These speakers are not only experts-they're also deeply relatable. Whether they're on stage, on YouTube, or on a podcast, they're changing how the world talks about anxiety.
Common myths about anxiety speakers
1. Myth: Anxiety speakers must be completely 'cured' of anxiety.
Many assume that to speak about anxiety, you have to be 100% free of it. That's simply not true. In fact, some of the most impactful anxiety speakers are those who still manage anxiety daily. Take Matt Haig, author and speaker, who openly shares his ongoing mental health journey. His vulnerability is what makes his talks resonate. Audiences don't want perfection. They want honesty.
2. Myth: Anxiety speakers only talk to therapy or mental health audiences.
Not even close. Anxiety is a universal experience. Anxiety speakers are booked at corporate retreats, tech conferences, schools, and even sports organizations. For example, Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps has spoken about anxiety and depression at business events and leadership summits. The message is relevant everywhere.
3. Myth: You need a psychology degree to be taken seriously.
While clinical credentials can help in certain contexts, lived experience and storytelling are just as powerful. What matters is credibility, not credentials. Many anxiety speakers come from backgrounds in entrepreneurship, education, or the arts. Their unique lens adds depth to the conversation.
4. Myth: Talking about anxiety publicly will hurt your career.
Actually, it can do the opposite. In today's world, transparency builds trust. Leaders who speak openly about mental health are often seen as more relatable and authentic. Think of Prince Harry or Simone Biles. Their openness didn't damage their influence - it expanded it.
5. Myth: Anxiety speakers are always calm and confident on stage.
Nope. Many still experience nerves or even panic before stepping on stage. The difference is, they've learned tools to manage it. And sometimes, they even share that in real-time with the audience, making the talk even more powerful. It's not about being fearless. It's about showing up anyway.
Case studies of successful anxiety speakers
In the UK, Chloe Brotheridge transitioned from hypnotherapist to bestselling author and anxiety speaker. Her talks blend science-backed techniques with personal stories, making her a favorite at wellness festivals and corporate events alike. What sets her apart is her ability to connect with both Gen Z and senior executives, often in the same room.
Then there's Kevin Hines, who survived a suicide attempt off the Golden Gate Bridge. His story is raw, emotional, and unforgettable. But what makes him a standout anxiety speaker is how he uses storytelling to drive policy change. He's spoken at the Pentagon, Google, and schools across the U.S., showing that personal experience can influence systems.
In India, Neerja Malik, a two-time cancer survivor, speaks about anxiety through the lens of resilience. Her talks are less about clinical definitions and more about navigating fear in high-stakes moments. She's been invited to speak at hospitals, women's leadership forums, and even cricket academies.
And don't overlook the digital-first speakers. YouTube creator Kati Morton built a global following by discussing anxiety and mental health in short, digestible videos. Her transition to live speaking engagements was natural, and now she's a regular at VidCon and online summits.
Each of these speakers carved their own lane. Some started with a book, others with a video, and some just with a story they couldn't keep to themselves. What they share is not a polished persona, but a willingness to be real in front of others. That's what makes them successful.
Future trends for anxiety speakers
- Hybrid speaking formats are becoming the norm. Anxiety speakers are increasingly delivering talks via livestreams, webinars, and virtual summits. This allows them to reach audiences in rural areas, across time zones, and in industries that previously lacked access to mental health education.
- Corporate wellness is evolving. Companies are no longer satisfied with generic 'stress management' sessions. They want speakers who can address anxiety in the context of remote work, burnout, and team dynamics. Expect more anxiety speakers to be brought into leadership offsites, DEI trainings, and onboarding programs.
- More intersectional voices are rising. Audiences are looking for speakers who reflect diverse backgrounds: neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQ+ advocates, BIPOC professionals, and people with disabilities. Anxiety doesn't look the same for everyone, and the speaker circuit is finally catching up.
- Micro-events and niche communities are growing. Instead of massive conferences, anxiety speakers are being invited to intimate retreats, mastermind groups, and peer-led circles. These smaller settings allow for deeper interaction and personalized content.
- AI and biofeedback tools are becoming part of the talk. Some speakers are integrating wearable data (like heart rate variability) into their presentations to show real-time anxiety responses and coping strategies. This tech-meets-human approach is especially popular in health and startup communities.
As anxiety becomes a more accepted topic in public discourse, the role of the anxiety speaker is shifting from educator to facilitator. They're not just delivering information. They're creating spaces for dialogue, healing, and action.
Tools and resources for aspiring anxiety speakers
1. Talks.co. This podcast guest matching tool is a goldmine for new anxiety speakers. It helps you get booked on relevant podcasts, which is a great way to refine your message and build authority. Tip: Start with niche shows that focus on wellness, entrepreneurship, or education.
2. SpeakerHub. A platform to create a speaker profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. It's especially useful for international exposure. Make sure your profile includes a short video clip of you speaking.
3. Canva. For designing slide decks that don't look like they came from 2005. Use their templates to create clean, visually engaging presentations. Bonus: They have a 'Mental Health' category with relevant icons and graphics.
4. Zoom or StreamYard. If you're doing virtual talks, these platforms are essential. StreamYard is great for live streaming to multiple platforms, while Zoom is better for interactive workshops.
5. MindTools. A treasure trove of communication and leadership resources. Check out their public speaking and emotional intelligence sections to sharpen your delivery.
6. TEDx Speaker Guide. Even if you're not aiming for a TEDx talk right away, this guide is packed with tips on storytelling, structure, and stage presence.
7. Notion. Use it to organize your speaking topics, track outreach, and store testimonials. You can even create a public-facing speaker page.
8. Calmerry or BetterHelp. If you're managing your own anxiety while speaking, these platforms offer affordable therapy options. Staying grounded is part of the job.
Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, these tools can help you stay organized, visible, and impactful. Combine them with a clear message and a willingness to share, and you've got the foundation of a compelling anxiety speaker brand.