Find a licensed psychologist in Charlottesville, VA

As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with eight years of nursing experience spanning multiple specialties, I bring a broad clinical perspective to mental health care across the lifespan. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma-related conditions, mood disorders, burnout, and difficult life transitions. My approach is compassionate, holistic, and rooted in evidence-based practice—combining psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy to treat the whole person, not just symptoms. I partner with each client to build personalized treatment plans centered on resilience.

I earned my Master of Science in nursing from Walden University. My approach is collaborative and individualized, combining comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and thoughtful medication management with psychoeducation, mindfulness-based strategies, and strength-based coping skills.

If you've been carrying more than you let others see, you don't have to do it alone. I offer a warm, respectful, judgment-free space where we can identify patterns, build practical tools, and restore clarity and confidence. When you're ready, I'm here to help you take that next step toward meaningful, sustainable change.

I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering empathetic, research-driven care to individuals of all ages. I have worked with clients facing a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, and other psychiatric conditions. Many individuals seek insight, emotional stability, and actionable strategies to navigate stressors, strengthen relationships, and regain a sense of control. I am particularly committed to empowering clients seeking deeper self-understanding, resilience, and working toward meaningful, lasting change.

My personality style is warm, empathetic, and approachable, creating a safe space where clients feel comfortable being open and honest. I help them feel heard, understood, and empowered. I value authenticity and maintain a nonjudgmental attitude, meeting each person where they are and helping clients build practical skills for lasting growth and healing.

Taking the first step toward mental wellness can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone. I am here to support you with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to your growth and healing. I encourage you to take the next step and begin your journey toward meaningful change.

I specialize in working with people with ADHD and autism, as well as anyone looking for a space where they can feel genuinely heard. As your therapist, I will not be another voice telling you to push through and make things work when they just won't. I will show up as a kind, calm person who's ready to meet you where you are without judgement. I’ll take the time to get to know you, learn what matters to you, and work with you to create the change you're looking for. If you're feeling overwhelmed and unsure about where to even begin, that's okay. We can figure it out together!

In our sessions, you’ll have space to talk openly about whatever is on your mind. I can offer structure, feedback, and practical guidance when that’s helpful, while also giving you room to slow down, sort through your thoughts and emotions, and make sense of what you’re experiencing.

You deserve a life that is authentic and feels like your own. If you’re thinking about starting therapy, feel free to reach out for a free consultation or initial appointment. We can talk, get to know each other a little, and see if working together feels like a good fit. I'm available to work virtually with anyone in VA or SC.

Nessalyn Dearce is a Resident in Counseling who has experience providing mental health services to children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, chronic illness, and stress management. Nessalyn is LGBTQIA+ affirming and works to maintain multicultural awareness in session. She completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology at Christopher Newport University and her Master of Science (MS) in Education in Counseling at Old Dominion University. 

Nessalyn utilizes person-centered, mindfulness-based, cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, and emotionally focused approaches to therapy. She encourages individuals to acknowledge their inner experiences in healthy ways and assists them in aligning with their goals and ideals. Nessalyn aims to meet the individual needs of each person by exploring the qualities and experiences that make them unique.

Nessalyn understands that getting help can be difficult and intimidating, so she aims to make the office a safe space for clients to be themselves and hopes to establish a therapeutic relationship that makes room for growth and healing.

I am a Resident in Counseling with 4 years of experience supporting adults and teenagers with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allows me to serve the Spanish-speaking community and welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds. I also have experience working with the immigrant population and strive to provide compassionate, culturally responsive care that meets clients where they are.

I earned my Master’s in Counseling and Human Development and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Radford University. My approach is holistic and includes person-centered, multicultural, cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive arts, solution-focused, and supportive-directive methods, tailored to each client’s needs.

I understand that life can feel difficult and overwhelming at times. I believe healing and growth are possible when trust and rapport are built, and I will walk alongside you at your own pace in the journey toward well-being. Together, we can create space for hope, resilience, and meaningful change.