Julia French

Julia French, a 1986 Theology and English graduate, has built a diverse career focused on helping others. Starting in adult education, she later co-ran a mental health business and became an interfaith minister. Now a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Julia creates personalized programs to help clients transform their lives.

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

After winning the 1986 Theology prize, I was honoured to be given the opportunity to teach adult education courses in World Religions. I later trained specifically to teach adults and project managed the WEA's community education Kent-wide project for 8 years. Inspired by working with non-traditional students and empowering them towards goals that had previously felt beyond their reach, I added Creative Arts Therapy to my training and co-ran a business which included working in mental health services across the county. Returning to my roots in comparative religion, I then trained as an interfaith minister creating meaningful diverse ceremonies for many people. Missing therapeutic work however, I trained in Counselling and then later added Clinical Hypnotherapy to this. I have my own business working with a wide range of people to help them transform their lives.

What does a typical work day look like for you?

As a Hypnotherapist I meet people where they are, designing unique programmes that enable them to make the changes they wish to make in their lives. I will see a client either via zoom or in my garden therapy room then greatly enjoy creating a tailor-made hypnotherapy recording with soothing music and send it to the client to work with at home.

Can you share a professional highlight from your career so far?

Seeing someone whose life was dominated by Severe Anxiety and Intrusive Thoughts reduce this to virtually nothing and find both freedom and happiness.

How did your time at Kent help you achieve your current career?

It gave me the confidence and self-belief to pursue career choices I really value.

What advice would you give to our current/prospective students who are looking to get into the same line of work?

Do it! It's really rewarding!

Did you get involved in any extracurricular activities as a student?

As a single parent studying at Kent my priorities were elsewhere, but I would encourage anyone to take up the wonderful opportunities Kent offers.

Do you have a favourite memory from your time at Kent?

Discovering all the volumes of Carl Jung's extensive work in the amazing Kent library and pouring over them! The moment I found I had won the Theology prize!

Is there anything you would do differently if you could repeat your time at Kent?

If I had the opportunity I would have loved to have joined clubs and societies, but needed the evenings for my young son! I would also have made extensive use of the great sports facilities!

Are you still in touch with other Kent alumni or academics?

Yes! My former business partner who studied drama at Kent and became a drama therapist. She is now a successful CBT therapist and trainer, and we see each other regularly. I still value the contacts I made at UKC greatly!

What are your future ambitions?

To continue practising as a Clinical Hypnotherapist and Empower people to make positive changes in their lives!