Dr. Dave Verhaagen earned his PhD in psychology from UNC-Chapel Hill. He is a licensed psychologist and one of less than 4% of psychologists in the country to be nationally board-certified in a specialty area. He served as the former clinical director of three mental health programs and is the founder of Southeast Psych in Nashville and Charlotte, one of the largest and most-respected psychology practices in the country.
As the author of nine books, he has written about therapy, parenting, and culture. His forthcoming book, “Working with the Wealthy and Well-Known: Evidence-Based Guidance for Treatment Plans and Strategies,” (Routledge, 2025) is the first of its kind in the field. He has held numerous faculty appointments and currently serves as Adjunct Assistant Professor for Vanderbilt University’s Clinical Psychology PhD program.
Dr. Verhaagen has seven years of broadcasting experience and is an award-winning podcast host, as well as having served as Executive Producer for two feature-length documentaries. He has spoken to over 600 groups across the country and internationally on topics that range from building resiliency to treating challenging conditions.
He has a contract with a major sports league and has seen both artists (across disciplines) and athletes (both collegiate and pro) in his practice for over 25 years and is the director of Southeast Psych Nashville’s Artists + Athletes program.
In therapy, he sees young adult guys for a range of concerns, including life direction, anxiety and depression, substance use, identity formation, and college and career success. He is approved to practice in over 40 states.
He has been married to Ellen for over 30 years and they have four young adult children. He enjoys photography, magic, writing, travel, and gaming. He loves good movies and TV shows.
If you are a young adult guy (ages 18-30) or are their loved one and are looking for a good match of a therapist who is experienced, skilled, warm, and has a good sense of humor, then Dr. Verhaagen may be a great fit for you.
Dr. Verhaagen is also approved by PsyPact to practice teletherapy in most states. PsyPact, the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact, is an agreement among participating states that allows licensed psychologists to provide tele-psychology services across state lines. This increases access to therapy for individuals who travel frequently for work, attend college in another state, those who relocate temporarily, and others. With PsyPact, approved psychologists can offer their services in any participating state, ensuring continuity of care regardless of location. Explore the states included in PsyPact by clicking here.
Some Kind Words from Our Clients
“Dave Verhaagen has been a continual source of professional and caring support for our sons. Our son feels comfortable and safe sharing with Dave, and Dave has made our soon feel heard. Our son comes home from the appointments better off.”
“He is the best in the world. Dr. V is practical, thought-provoking and kind with zero judgment.”
