Richard Blackford, PhD, received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Fuller Graduate School of Psychology (1989), an American Psychological Association (APA)-approved program. He also completed two APA-approved internships, including one as chief intern at the West Los Angeles VA/UCLA Medical Center—the largest psychiatric facility in the world. He also received training and research experience at USC Medical Center. He is licensed in California and Pennsylvania, and began his practice in 1989.
Clients of Dr. Blackford appreciate his approach to therapy, where his unique insights on depression, anxiety, panic, and relational issues have often been described as “life changing.” Clients often return to share how their therapy experiences have affected them. Others return periodically to refresh what they learned to prepare for the next level of mental and emotional growth.
Dr. Blackford also has expertise in medication management, helping clients resolve issues arising from medications. He will work with you and your physician to address undesirable medication side effects and interactions, or may recommend an alternative medication.
Dr. Blackford also holds a seminary degree and enjoys helping his clients on their path to spiritual development and discovery. He has published and presented in numerous professional settings.
Mary Blackford, PhD LCSW, spent many years working in publishing helping individuals to write, edit, and rewrite their stories. Today, she brings that same passion to her work as a licensed social worker. Mary firmly believes that most people are doing the best they can with the resources they have, but that everyone needs a little help now and then.
Her approach to therapy is designed to help you discover and establish personal goals, and to equip you with the strength and skills needed to attain those goals and improve your life. Mary especially enjoys helping women who struggle with Adult ADHD, by providing the creative solutions necessary to manage daily life and its challenges.
Mary’s specialties include:
Adult ADHD
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Grief and loss
Caregiver fatigue
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship issues
Sexual dysfunction
Amy Boxer is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) who specializes working with individuals who experience trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, personality disorders and other mental health concerns.
In 2019, Amy received her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Edinboro University. She completed her internship in short term residential treatment (CRU) and diversion services (CSANDS) through UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor. With her experience in crisis intervention and trauma, Amy utilizes a client-centered approach with a self-paced style in her work to help individuals through solution focused and strength based treatment.
Mallory joined Affiliated Counseling Services in 2018. Prior to becoming the office manager, Mallory worked at a regional financial institution. After years of working on the administrative side, Mallory has taken a step back in order to pursue her educational goals and plans to eventually become a therapist herself.
Nicole joined our team in 2020. She has previous experience as an EMT and office administration. Her diverse experience combined with a pleasant demeanor and bright smile liven up our office and make clients feel at ease. She works hard to get each client the information they need to be successful with our therapists.