Dr. David F. O'Connell
David F. O’Connell, Ph.D., M.S., MP, NBFE, is a licensed forensic and counseling psychologist with over 40 years of experience specializing in a variety of focused forensic assessments, expert testimony, and clinical services. He has held diplomate status with the American Board of Psychological Specialties. Dr. O’Connell has served as an expert witness in numerous cases, providing clear and defensible evaluations for criminal, civil, and family law matters.
In addition to his forensic work, Dr. O’Connell has held prescriptive privileges in New Mexico, served on the faculties of several universities, and contributed extensively to research and publications in the field. His work is characterized by a commitment to objectivity, professionalism, and a deep understanding of both psychological and legal principles. He is a sought-after resource for attorneys looking for reliable, court-ready psychological insights and evaluations.
In addition to his forensic work Dr. O'Connell continues in his role as a certified prescribing medical psychologist administering
psychiatric medications to clients in need of this service in addition to performing intensive psychotherapy for a wide spectrum of psychological disorders. He has maintained a private, independent clinical practice of treatment and consultation for 30 years .He has extensive clinical experience in medical settings, regularly consulting with Primary Care physicians and other medical professionals. He has had hospital privileges for 20 years.
Dr. O’Connell has served on the faculties of several universities including Penn State University, Alvernia University and the graduate school of Rosemont College. He is author /editor of nine books and over a dozen professional journal articles. As a highly regarded speaker and trainer, he has offered seminars to many organizations including The National Security Agency, DuPont Corporation and The Red Cross. He has served as a consultant and program developer for LIFEWORKS, an exclusive addictions/psychiatric treatment facility in London, UK.
He is the former Corporate Clinical Director of Adult and Adolescent Services at Caron Addiction Treatment Programs, a nationally recognized chemical dependency treatment facility in Reading, Pa. and Florida. There he developed and ran a specialized, highly regarded clinical program for impaired professionals and executives and published a well- received book on it that is one of the few publications in this unique area of treatment and assessment.
Dr. O’Connell has appeared on The Voice of America, National Public Radio and has contributed to articles in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Men’s Health Magazine and The Hill.
Experience
Decades of Expertise in Forensic Psychology and Expert Testimony
Dr. O’Connell’s has significant experience for over two decades providing powerful expert testimony and psychological evaluations in criminal, civil, and family law cases in over four states and several counties in Pennsylvania. His background includes training under respected forensic psychiatrists, faculty positions at renowned universities, and certifications that set him apart as a trusted authority in forensic mental health. Dr. O’Connell’s comprehensive understanding of both legal and psychological principles ensures that his assessments are thorough, objective, and defensible in court. Dr. O’Connell has been a consulting psychologist for public defenders in Pennsylvania and has offered “Curbstone Consultations” to lawyers at the Berks County Bar Association in Reading, Pa.
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Ph.D. in Psychological Studies from Temple University, Philadelphia
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M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University
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Post-Doctoral M.S. in Clinical Psychopharmacology from Fairleigh Dickinson University
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Licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania and New Mexico
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Certified Forensic Mental Evaluator with the National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE)
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Diplomate in Forensic & Addictions Psychology with the American Board of Psychological Specialties
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Prescriptive Privileges in New Mexico (held for over a decade)
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Registered DEA Controlled Substances License holder
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Former Clinical Director at Caron Foundation, a leading addiction treatment program
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Faculty Positions at Alvernia University, Penn State University, and Rosemont College
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Member of the American Board of Medical Psychology
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Past President of the Berks Area Psychological Society
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Former Fellow of the Pennsylvania Psychological Association
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Former Editorial Board Member of the Journal of Adolescent Chemical Dependency
Publications
Dr. David F. O’Connell is the author of several impactful books, each addressing key topics in mental health, addiction recovery, and the integration of spiritual approaches in clinical practice. His publications include Managing Your Recovery from Addition: A guide for Executives, Senior Managers and Other Professionals, Freedom in Every Moment: a guide for achieving personal resilience, Prescribing Health: which explores the role of Transcendental Meditation in healthcare, and Awakening the Spirit, focusing on a spiritual approach to overcoming addictions. His work offers valuable insights for both professionals and individuals, emphasizing practical strategies and evidence-based solutions for complex psychological issues.