ADHD therapists and psychiatrists in Chesapeake, VA

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

I received my bachelor's from James Madison University and a Master of Arts from Lesley University in Expressive Therapy.

I believe that we are all a work in progress, including myself. I want therapy to feel safe, productive and supportive.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 6 years of experience, I specialize in providing compassionate, holistic care to individuals recovering from trauma and living with PTSD as well as those struggling with anxiety and depression. My approach integrates mind, body, and spirit, acknowledging that healing happens on multiple levels.

I am a native to the Hampton Roads area specializing in children, teens and families. One of the most important aspects of therapy is the ability to truly listen and connect with clients. I offer a range of therapeutic options that will allow a deeper sense of self and connection with others.

Are you navigating a major life transition? Whether you're starting college, making a career change, becoming a parent, or watching your teen grow into someone you barely recognize, these shifts are hard! Maybe you’re seeing your child struggle with big emotions and behavior in school, or your preteen is battling anxiety and feelings of not belonging. If this resonates, please take a deep breath...you are in the right place. We ALL struggle, and seeking support is a profound act of strength and resilience. Take that step! As a counselor with 20 years of experience, I would love to listen and guide you towards reaching your goals.

I apply a holistic and person-centered approach to therapy. I recognize that by creating a safe, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment, clients can learn to redefine dysfunctional boundaries, to reconnect with a sense of meaning for their lives, and to ultimately make lasting changes in their lives and relationships. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in navigating life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, gender identity, sexual identity, trauma, OCD, narcissistic abuse, adult children of emotionally immature parents, and relationship strain.

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.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and stress-related concerns through a combination of medication management and supportive psychotherapy.

My approach is holistic, collaborative, and patient-centered. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and respected. Together, we will explore your concerns, identify treatment goals, and develop a personalized plan that aligns with your needs and lifestyle.

I incorporate evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral techniques, supportive therapy, and psychoeducation to help clients build coping skills and improve overall well-being. Whether you are starting treatment for the first time or continuing your mental health journey, I strive to provide care that is thoughtful, empowering, and results-oriented.

I offer convenient telehealth services, making it easier to access care from the comfort of your home. My goal is to support you in achieving stability, balance, and improved quality of life.

I welcome clients from diverse backgrounds and am committed to culturally sensitive care.

I am a wife and mother of two children ages 12 and 14 yo and two dogs. I have lived in DC Metropolitan area for most of my life. I have experienced acculturation and loss of a parent due to cancer. I was raised amongst entrepreneurs, politicians, doctors and lawyers. Despite the challenges, I've found common grounds with people from all walks of life.