Supporting The Next Generation of Mental Health Professionals

Student Training Program at Path to Serenity Mental Health

Virginia Beach PMHNP student preceptor training with Michelle Millspaw PMHNP

Our Virginia Beach PMHNP student preceptor program provides graduate students with hands-on clinical training in an inclusive outpatient setting. Trainees work closely with experienced PMHNPs and therapists, gaining real-world experience in therapy, psychiatric medication management, and trauma-informed care for LGBTQIA+ and veteran populations. Students are guided, mentored, and supported as they complete their required clinical hours in preparation for licensure.

What Sets Our Program Apart

An Affirming and Supportive Learning Environment

An Inclusive and Affirming Clinical Learning Environment

Our Virginia Beach PMHNP student preceptor program provides a welcoming and affirming environment where students of all backgrounds can thrive. We prioritize trauma-informed care and inclusive practices, creating a safe space for learning about mental health treatment for LGBTQIA+ individuals, military members, veterans, and diverse populations. Students and interns are supported every step of the way by experienced PMHNPs and therapists, ensuring that clinical training is both educational and confidence-building.

Who Our Student Program Is Designed For

Designed for Graduate Mental Health Students in Virginia Beach

Our student program is ideal for graduate PMHNP students seeking preceptorship, as well as counseling interns and residents who want real-world clinical experience in a structured, supportive setting. Participants gain exposure to therapy, psychiatric medication management, and diverse clinical populations, helping them build competence and confidence for licensure and professional growth. Whether you’re completing practicum hours or residency requirements, our program offers a meaningful and engaging pathway to develop your clinical skills.

Why Train at Path to Serenity Mental Health

Hands-On Mentorship and Real-World Clinical Experience

Training at Path to Serenity offers a unique combination of mentorship, hands-on experience, and diverse clinical exposure. Students work with an experienced team who model best practices in therapy and medication management, including trauma-informed approaches and LGBTQIA+ affirmative care. Our upcoming Spravato® program provides additional opportunities to learn about cutting-edge psychiatric treatments. With a focus on individualized learning and professional growth, our program equips students and interns with the skills, confidence, and insight to thrive in their careers.

Expanding Clinical Training and Exposure

Comprehensive Clinical Training and Exposure

Students in our Virginia Beach PMHNP student preceptor program gain broad clinical exposure that prepares them for real-world practice. Training includes opportunities in therapy, medication management, and collaborative care across multiple populations, including LGBTQIA+ clients, veterans, and military families. Our preceptors provide individualized guidance, supervision, and mentorship, helping each student or intern tailor their experience to their professional goals. Participants also have the chance to observe innovative treatments, including our soon-to-launch Spravato® program, giving them a competitive edge as they advance toward licensure.

I am currently a PMHNP student at Path to Serenity Mental Health, and I cannot say enough positive things about my experience with Michelle as my preceptor. Michelle is an exceptional clinician with a wealth of knowledge and a remarkable ability to teach in a way that supports understanding, recall, and clinical confidence. She takes the time to explain not just the “what,” but the “why,” which has been invaluable to my learning and growth.

What truly stands out is the care and presence she brings to her patients. She is thorough, compassionate, and intentional, creating a space where patients feel heard and supported. Observing her patient interactions has been both inspiring and educational.

I have also been grateful for the resources and guidance provided by Nicole, the resident therapist at Path to Serenity. Her insight and willingness to share knowledge have greatly enhanced my learning experience. Both Michelle and Nicole are down-to-earth, approachable, and generous with their expertise.

Finding Michelle as a preceptor has truly been a blessing in my PMHNP journey, and I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to learn from such dedicated and knowledgeable professionals.

Lakeisha, PMHNP Student

Words can not describe how amazing Michelle Millspaw is as a psychiatric NP preceptor! She was absolutely exceptional. I was very nervous in the beginning, as this was my first clinical experience in my program, and she made me feel comfortable and supported from day one. She was always approachable, took time to teach and explain concepts, and created a warm and friendly learning environment where questions were always encouraged. She allowed me the independence necessary to build my skills while still always being available whenever guidance was needed. Her balance of support and autonomy made this an incredibly valuable learning experience, and I would not be the provider I am today without her!

Dale Sawyer, PMHNP-BC

Apply to Our Student Training Program

Take the Next Step in Your Clinical Training

If you are interested in joining our student training program, please complete the application form below. Our team carefully reviews all submissions and will contact selected applicants regarding next steps.

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