Luke McDonald
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Luke is the founder of Leading Psychology and a practicing registered psychologist.
Luke cares about helping people and he founded Leading Psychology for the purpose of leading people in the right direction in their lives. Luke believes that when life gets tough, it’s important for people to receive the best quality care and to be guided in the right direction.
Luke has experience working in the Department of Justice facilitating group intervention programs for offenders, at Lifeline Australia assisting people at risk of suicide, in sporting clubs and now in private practice. Luke has a keen interest in working in the areas of addictions, marriages, trauma, relationships and helping to mature people in their faith and relationship with God.
Luke is part of the AFL Players Association mental health network, helping those connected to the AFL manage their mental health and well-being.
Luke combines warmth and gentleness, with a good knowledge of what works in mental recovery. When needed, Luke skillfully weaves faith-based counseling into his work with clients to provide a broad and holistic approach.
In his time outside of work, he enjoys reading, being active and being part of his local church.
Qualifications:
Registered Psychologist – Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Registration Number PSY0002022949)
Board Approved Supervisor – Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency
Bachelor of Exercise Science and Human Movement – Victoria University
Bachelor of Psychological Studies – Victoria University
Graduate Diploma of Psychology – Deakin University
Master of Professional Psychology – Monash University
Natasha Trika
Our administrative assistant, Natasha, provides empathetic, high-level support to both our psychologists and clients. Acting as the first point of contact, she ensures that every interaction, from the initial inquiry to ongoing scheduling and support, is handled with professionalism, discretion, and care. Natasha manages the day-to-day administrative operations of the clinic, allowing our psychologists to focus entirely on client care. We are very grateful to have Natasha working at Leading Psychology.
Charlotte Ford
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Charlotte is a general psychologist currently completing a clinical registrar program. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate their current challenges including mood disorders, anxiety, relationship conflict, sexual and gender identity exploration, sexual health, neurodiversity, self-esteem issues, trauma-related disorders and life transitions. Charlotte tailors evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Schema Therapy, to meet each person’s unique needs.
Charlotte is particularly passionate about exploring sociocultural systems, attachment patterns and the somatic impacts of stress on the body. She is also keen to support clients to explore emotion regulation and build effective communication skills, which I believe is fundamental to maintain healthy relationships and emotional well-being.
Creating a warm, authentic and collaborative space where clients feel understood and comfortable is essential to her practice. She takes a holistic, trauma-informed and neuro-affirming approach, empowering clients to gain deeper understanding of themselves to confidently and compassionately manage life’s challenges.
In her own time, she enjoys bushwalking, attending local music events, and exploring op-shops.
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