Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Chesapeake, VA covered by Aetna

Hi. My name is Monique Branch, a licensed therapist that provides a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard, understood and encouraged as you navigate life's challenges. Whether dealing with stress, relationship concerns, personal growth, or difficult seasons in life, my goal is to help you build healthier connections with yourself and others. I believe in meeting you where you are, offering compassion without judgement, and working together to create a meaningful change. To me, you are more than a client, you're a person whose story matters.

Making the decision to start therapy is a profound investment of your time, energy, and vulnerability. If you are looking for a blank-slate clinician who simply nods and listens, we might not be the best fit. I offer a highly engaged, malleable, and unflinching partnership.

My approach is rooted in the belief that while the work of untangling our lives is deeply structural, the room itself doesn't always have to feel heavy. I bring a grounded warmth to my practice—which means knowing how to sit quietly in the gravity of a difficult truth, but also knowing when to break the tension, exhale, and find the light in the sheer complexity of being human. I won’t just sit in silence while you do all the heavy lifting; I am an active collaborator who adapts to exactly where you are.

I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner for over 5 years, and I am also a board certified adult nurse practitioner for over 12 years. I began my nursing career graduating from university of MD with my bachelors, and then attended Johns Hopkins University for my masters. I decided to further my education by attending Brandman University to obtain my Doctorate and psychiatric mental health certification in 2018.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with nearly 50 years of experience helping individuals, couples, families, churches, and organizations find help, healing, and hope. Dually trained in both clinical psychology and theology, I bring an integrated perspective to mental health care that honors the whole person. I earned my Psy.D. and M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Rosemead School of Psychology at Biola University and have served in a variety of professional roles, including Director of Counseling Services at Focus on the Family and Vice President of the American Association of Christian Counselors. I have authored or co-authored ten books on marriage, mental health, recovery, and relational health, and have been in professional practice since 1977.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Master's in Clinical Social Work from the University of Southern California and a Master's in Psychology/Educational Psychology from Capella University. I am clinically trained in multiple modalities to include EMDR, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, and Trauma Psychotherapy.

Clients should know that I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where they can openly discuss their concerns. I understand that seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, and I strive to build trusting relationships through empathy, respect, and active listening.

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in treating the whole person rather than just symptoms. I work collaboratively with clients to develop individualized treatment plans that align with their goals, values, and lifestyle. My approach combines evidence-based medication management with education, supportive therapy, and practical coping strategies to promote lasting wellness.

Clients can expect me to be compassionate, approachable, and dedicated to helping them navigate life's challenges while empowering them to take an active role in their mental health journey.