Julia Barnard lives in Adelaide, Australia with her husband and three cats. She runs the website makethechange.com.au where she writes about counselling, health, happiness and wellbeing.

Her interest in Positive Psychology and happiness began in 2004 after reading an article in Psychology Today featuring Chris Peterson and Martin Seligman. She’d found something she loved and eventually wrote her own book on the subject. As a counsellor she wanted the reader to be actively involved in the process of creating happiness, which is why she published a workbook. She is an Associate Charter Member of the International Positive Psychology Association.

Before becoming a counsellor in 2001, Julia worked in a number of different roles. Since leaving university, she’s worked as a research assistant, editor and did a short stint as a taxation officer. As well as counselling, Julia has done rehabilitation work with people who have experienced brain injury.

Originally from the UK, Julia moved to Australia in 2003. She loves books, cooking and animals (but not cooking animals). She loves to learn new things, so it’s not surprising this is her top signature strength.

In 2008 Julia was featured in an article for MiNDFOOD magazine: “Change the Way You Think”.