Karen S. Severns, PsyD, LCSW

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Karen S. Severns is a Clinical Psychologist in Aberdeen, SD with special training and skill in identifying and managing psychological disorders. As a Clinical Psychologist, Karen S. Severns, PsyD, LCSW performs psychological evaluations and creates treatment protocols. Clinical Psychology is the diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral dysfunctions. Significant diseases and conditions treated by Clinical Psychologists include phobias, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, bipolar disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia. Medical tests, procedures and therapies provided by Clinical Psychologists include diagnostic observations and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

A psychologist who provides continuing and comprehensive mental and behavioral health care for individuals and families; consultation to agencies and communities; training, education and supervision; and research-based practice. It is a specialty in breadth -- one that is broadly inclusive of severe psychopathology -- and marked by comprehensiveness and integration of knowledge and skill from a broad array of disciplines within and outside of psychology proper. The scope of clinical psychology encompasses all ages, multiple diversities and varied systems.

Clinical Social Worker

A social worker who holds a master's or doctoral degree in social work from an accredited school of social work in addition to at least two years of post-master's supervised experience in a clinical setting. The social worker must be licensed, certified, or registered at the clinical level in the jurisdiction of practice. A clinical social worker provides direct services, including interventions focused on interpersonal interactions, intrapsychic dynamics, and life management issues. Clinical social work services are based on bio-psychosocial perspectives. Services consist of assessment, diagnosis, treatment (including psychotherapy and counseling), client-centered advocacy, consultation, evaluation, and prevention of mental illness, emotional, or behavioral disturbances.