Find a psychiatrist in Norfolk, VA — covered by insurance

Watching your child or teen struggle can feel isolating, but you are not alone.

My name is Paula Gravitt, and I'm a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a proud Virginia Commonwealth University alum. My professional focus is solely on young people. My extensive clinical background—combined with a deep personal perspective—allows me to connect with families and guide them toward lasting change.

I specialize in treating children and teens facing complex challenges, including:

• Autism (co-occurring mental health issues)

• ADHD, OCD

• Anxiety, Depression, and Mood Disorders

• Challenging Behaviors and Self-Injurious Behaviors

• Improving Parent-Child Communication and Family Dynamics

With over three decades of dedicated psychiatric experience, I bring a unique, comprehensive perspective to mental health care. My journey spans more than 30 years in the field, including 18 years as an advance practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and adult medical prescriber. Having cared for individuals of all ages during my foundational years as a registered nurse, I understand the deep complexities of human development, behavioral health and substance abuse disorders. My passion for elevating patient care has allowed me to lead, mentor, and collaborate with teams of nurses across multiple states and healthcare systems. This expansive network keeps me at the forefront of modern, evidence-based treatments and diverse clinical practices. I am deeply committed to empowering my patients through personalized, empathetic and expert care. Whether you are navigating a life transition, managing a chronic mental health condition, or seeking support for substance recovery, my wealth of knowledge ensures you receive top-tier, specialized guidance. Together we will build a tailored path toward lasting wellness, balance and healing.

My practice is rooted in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care designed to help you navigate and improve your mental well-being. I believe in a comprehensive treatment model with evidence-based medication management and tailored interventions.

I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and the mental health complexities of chronic medical illness. My expertise also extends to sleep disorders, stress reduction, and dual diagnosis.

I am Dr. LaTaya T. Whitaker, DNP, PMHNP‐BC, FNP‐BC, a dual‐certified Nurse Practitioner with more than twenty years of experience in primary care, urgent care, occupational health, and psychiatric mental health. My practice is grounded in whole‐person, evidence‐based care that supports both physical and emotional wellbeing. Over the years, I’ve worked in federal agency clinics, community health settings, and academic nursing programs, where I’ve had the privilege of teaching and mentoring students at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma‐related concerns, mood disorders, and life transitions. I am deeply committed to providing accessible, equitable mental health care and helping individuals move toward stability, clarity, and long‐term wellness.

Hello, my name is Dr. Paula Robinson, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered mental health care. I hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and have several years of clinical experience working with individuals experiencing a wide range of mental health conditions.

Over the past four years, I have provided care to patients dealing with disorders such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma-related conditions, and other complex mental health challenges. My approach to care focuses on creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment where patients feel heard and empowered to participate in their treatment.

I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. My treatment approach combines evidence-based medication management, supportive therapy, and collaborative care to help individuals achieve improved mental wellness and quality of life.

My goal is to partner with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that supports long-term stability, resilience, and emotional well-being.

My path into psychiatry is both professional and personal. I moved to the U.S. alone at 17 while navigating complex PTSD and periods of misdiagnosis, which shaped how I understand mental health today. I began with a bachelor’s degree in psychology at Nankai University, then trained as a nurse and nurse practitioner at Charles R. Drew University and Purdue University.

Over the past 7 years, I’ve worked across medical and mental health settings, developing an approach that balances clinical precision with individualized care. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and complex PTSD, particularly for individuals who feel stuck or haven’t found relief in traditional treatment.

I’m licensed in California, Virginia, New York, Washington, and Oregon, and provide care via telehealth.