About
The Livology Story
2001
After enrolling in the Doctorate of Psychology (Health), and while looking for a thesis topic, Sally was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Suddenly, coping with the diagnosis of a neurological condition became very interesting to her, and Sally began her doctoral research that resulted in the thesis “Trying to take control while attempting to adapt: Perspectives of People with Multiple Sclerosis on the twelve months following diagnosis”.
Sally’s interest in coping strategies, and the need for an individualised approach when working with people with chronic health conditions and disabilities grew from there. Sally worked in client education and health promotion settings while finishing her studies and developed her knowledge of allied health, health care settings and the need for people with chronic health conditions to feel empowered to manage their health and well being, build resilience and feel connected.
2007
Sally began working as a psychologist in 2007 as part of the MS Clinic at Eastern Health In Melbourne, Victoria.
She then broadened her work into private practice where she moved into the broader neurological and disability spaces, as well as increasing her focus on working with people who wanted to explore a strategic approach to their lives moving forward, and the health professionals that supported them.
2019
Sally started Focussed Health Psychology in 2019 when Psychologist Seona Ilalio joined her practice.
Understanding that their mission was to transform lives, particularly those living with chronic health conditions and disabilities, through a unique blend of personal understanding and professional proficiency, they welcomed a third psychologist, Liel Bridgford, in 2021 who also shares a lived experience of disability.
Now
With psychologists who all have lived experience of disability or diagnosis of a chronic condition, the practice name of Livology was adopted in 2024.
Sally, Seona and Liel all offer a unique perspective and understanding to support their work with clients on a path to mental and emotional well-being.
Livology is committed to several core principles that guide our practice and shape our impact in the field.
This commitment to excellence guarantees our clients receive the highest quality care.
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Inclusion & Representation
We recognise the power of lived experience, which is why our team of psychologists all have firsthand experience with chronic health conditions or disabilities.
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Improved Access to Care
Our commitment to diversity allows us to better connect with clients from marginalised communities, leading to improved access to mental health services.
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Innovation in Practice
Our psychologists bring unique ideas, techniques, and perspectives to our practice, ensuring the development of effective and innovative approaches to treatment.
Meet The Team
Sally Shaw
Psychologist
BSc., Grad.Dip.Psych., D.Psych. (Health), MAAPi
Sally is all about being real in her work. Whether she’s helping clients, growing the Livology practice, or talking to health professionals, authenticity is key for her. As a psychologist, she’s focussed on supporting people with chronic illness or disability.
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Sally was diagnosed with MS in 2001 when completing her studies in psychology. This gave her a clear direction and a passion for working with people who are going through a 'health thing’. Sally started her private practice in 2007 and has carefully built a team of psychologists who not only bring outstanding professionalism, but also personal.
Sally started her private practice in 2007 and has carefully built a team of psychologists who not only bring professionalism but also personal experience with disability or chronic conditions. This lived experience is so important!
Sally is proud that Livology offers more than just regular psychology services. She and her team help people figure out how to live well after unexpected diagnoses or life changes. Her doctoral thesis focussed on understanding how people with multiple sclerosis deal with the first 12 months after diagnosis. Sally is dedicated to improving the lives of those facing similar challenges.
Sally doesn’t just stop at traditional psychology services. She creates online courses for people with Multiple Sclerosis, making support accessible to a greater audience. With her enthusiasm and experience, Sally aims to provide collaborative and empowering experiences for those dealing with health challenges or seeking positive life changes.
She’s not just a psychologist; she’s a passionate and empathetic advocate for her clients’ well-being.
Seona Ilalio
Psychologist
BAppSc(DisSt), BAppSc(Psych)(Hons),MProfPsych
Seona is a psychologist who firmly believes that being human means embracing the uniqueness of our individual journeys and she recognises the power of shared experiences in fostering connection and personal growth. Seona regards clients’ lived experiences as valuable resources and employs a range of techniques to help them reflect, explore, and build resilience.
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Diagnosed with a chronic health condition as a teenager, and through a journey of self- discovery Seona learned that while many aspects of the health world were beyond her control, she also found numerous areas where she could exert influence, especially in how she reframed challenges and embraced acceptance as a tool for personal growth.
Since joining the Livology team in 2019, Seona has been instrumental in driving the practice’s growth. Her dedication to authenticity and her firm belief in the transformative potential of shared experiences align seamlessly with the ethos at the heart of Livology.
When Seona isn’t working, she’s off on adventures in the world of new creative pursuits. From trying out new recipes in the kitchen to experimenting with growing veggies or attempting a masterpiece on the canvas, she’s all about embracing the joy of discovery—even when it comes with a few hiccups along the way.
Liel Bridgford
Psychologist
BAppSci (Hons)
Liel is a proud disabled, immigrant, non-conforming femme who uses she/they pronouns and is based in Naarm. She is a Psychologist, writer, educator, and podcaster.
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Liel loves supporting people with chronic health conditions or disabilities, and helping disabled people live their best life. She considers working with fellow disabled adults on their mental health and wellbeing as both her passion and a privilege.
As someone who has lived with a disability for more than 30 years, she is passionate about making a difference in the lives of disabled people. Working alongside her clients, Liel strives to be not only your therapist, but your ally.
Liel’s work focuses on inclusive, accessible, holistic, and trauma-informed support and education, by centering lived experience. She works using an intersectional feminist perspective and an anti-oppression approach.
Liel has worked in the mental health and disability sectors for over a decade. She is experienced in supporting people who live with disabilities, psychosocial challenges, anxiety, family violence, suicide ideation, perinatal mood challenges, adjustment issues and more.
In her free time, Liel not-so-secretly loves to sing along to the Frozen soundtrack with her kids and tries to keep up with social media at @LielKBridgford.
Emma Rogers
Virtual Assistant - Offsiters
BA (AppScPsych), GradDipEd (Sec).
Emma is our dedicated and compassionate virtual admin at Livology, who brings a wealth of organisational expertise to ensure every client is met with utmost care and professionalism, whilst navigating the digital landscape to ensure that your experience with us is as smooth and accessible as possible.
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Emma is genuinely passionate about mental health and wellbeing with qualifications and experience in education, and wellbeing leadership and guidance within schools. Whilst currently living a quiet rural life on a farm, she spends her days multitasking all our administration duties, answering your calls and emails, wrangling her young children, and frolicking in farm life.
Emma’s understanding and empathy ensures that you will always experience a friendly and welcoming space at Livology.
“As no one else can know how we perceive, we are the best experts on ourselves.”
– Carl Rogers
