Our Staff

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.

Mallory joined Affiliated Counseling Services in 2018. Prior to becoming the office manager, Mallory worked at a regional financial institution. Clients will appreciate Mallory’s kind personality and how she makes them feel welcomed and at-ease. “I’m usually the first staff person a client will meet,” Mallory said, “so it’s very important to me that each person feels our team’s commitment to them from the time they arrive.”