Karen E. Eberwein, PsyD
Clinical Psychologist

1616 18th Street, NW, Ste 112, Washington DC  20009
202-409-7774




  • What is a PsyD?

    A PsyD is a Doctorate in Psychology and an alternative to earning a PhD (Doctorate in Philosophy).  When choosing a psychologist or
    psychotherapist, it is safe to think about these degrees interchangeably.  Each requires a significant amount of post graduate
    coursework, practical experiences, and proof of clinical competence.  It is common for individuals who are not interested in pursuing a
    career that is research-focused to choose the PsyD route.  Compared to graduate PhD programs (which tend to place a greater
    emphasize conducting research during training), PsyD programs tend to be more applied and focused on clinical practice.  

  • How do I know if I need medication?

    The easiest answer to this question is: ask.  If you are not in treatment, this may be a question to ask during the first session.  If you are
    currently  being seen by a professional, ask him or her.  Whether one chooses to take medications or not is a personal decision.  People
    who seek psychotherapy for Bipolar Disorder, severe Depression, and certain Anxiety disorders often find that medication in combination
    with some form of therapy brings faster relief because symptoms can be more manageable compared to therapy alone. Consider the
    analogue learning to swim and think of medication as extra floatation.  When in deep water it is much easier to learn to swim with extra
    floatation compared to learning to swim while treading water.  Choosing medication also depends on the severity and type of symptoms
    you are reporting and the degree to which your daily functioning (school, work, social relationships) has been significantly impacted.  
    How one feels about taking medication will also depend on if you have taken it before and your own values/judgments about what it
    means (or does not mean) to be taking a prescription.  

  • Can You Prescribe Medication/What if I need medication?

    Psychologists do not prescribe medications.  If at the onset or during the course of treatment it is determined that medication could be of
    benefit, we will work together to find the appropriate physician (e.g. primary care or psychiatrist) to assist you in this need.
Frequently Asked Questions