Julie Hanna

Biography

Julie is an occupational therapist. She joined the School of Health Sciences academic team at the University of Liverpool in 2014. Previous roles have included working in the NHS for 25 years in specialist mental health services and as Arts and Health Lead for Liverpool’s 2008 Capital of Culture Programme.

Research

Julie began her PhD studies in 2012 as a part time student after completing her Masters of Research in Health Sciences at the University of Liverpool a couple of years previoulsy. Julie was motivated to continue her research as a result of her experience in Liverpool’s 2008 Capital of Culture Team and experience developing collaborative relationships and programmes between arts and health sectors. Her background working in mental health and as an occupational therapist fostered an interest in how engagement in meaningful activities may benefit wellbeing. Her research into the relationship between improvised, somatic and creative dance and wellbeing is focusing on social wellbeing and embodiment and the role of women in developing a particular practice.

Thesis title

Learning from the dancer and somatic creative practice: embodiment, wellbeing and relationship. A qualitative, reflexive study.

Publications

Hanna, J. & Moseley, P. (2012) “Interview as Generative Practice in Arts and Wellbeing Partnership Work” in Stickley, T. (ed) Qualitative Research in Arts and Mental Health. Ross on Wye: PCCS Books, pp. 98-11

Twiddy, H., Hanna, J. and Haynes, L. (2017) ‘Growing pains: understanding the needs of emerging adults with chronic pain’, British Journal of Pain, 11(3), pp. 108-118 DOI: 1177/2049463717709641