Dr. Lachlan Reid, PhD

Clinical Psychologist & Research Fellow in Behavioural Addictions

Melbourne Institute for Mental Health (fictional affiliation)

Dr. Lachlan Reid is an Australian clinical psychologist and researcher specializing in behavioural addictions, with a particular focus on gambling disorder in regional and urban communities. Raised in Bendigo, Victoria—a region historically linked to both gold mining and modern gambling venues—Dr. Reid developed an early interest in the intersection between risk, reward, and human behaviour.

He completed his PhD in Clinical Psychology at Monash University, where his doctoral research examined cognitive distortions in electronic gaming machine users. His work contributed to early Australian trials adapting cognitive behavioural therapy specifically for gambling environments.

Over the past decade, Dr. Reid has collaborated with public health agencies, helpline services, and community clinics across New South Wales and South Australia. His research has explored innovative treatment delivery methods, including telehealth CBT programs for rural populations and culturally adapted interventions for Indigenous communities.

Dr. Reid has published in several peer-reviewed journals and contributed to national discussions on gambling reform and mental health policy. He is particularly known for advocating integrated treatment models that combine therapy with social support and prevention strategies.

Why This Work Matters to Him

I’ve seen first-hand how gambling quietly dismantles lives—families, finances, identity. What drives me is not just helping individuals recover, but changing the systems that allow harm to flourish.

Dr. Reid believes that gambling addiction remains under-recognized compared to substance abuse disorders, despite its widespread impact. He emphasizes that stigma and accessibility are among the biggest barriers preventing Australians from seeking help.

The science is already there—we know what works. The challenge now is making those solutions reachable, affordable, and culturally relevant for every Australian who needs them.

Outside of his clinical and research work, Dr. Reid is involved in public education campaigns aimed at increasing awareness of gambling harm, particularly among young men—one of the most at-risk groups in Australia.

He continues to advocate for a future in which treatment is not only effective but also proactive, community-driven, and deeply human-centred.