Leslie Pelaez-Diaz, LSW

New Start Psychological Care

Licensed Social Worker

Individual therapy, ages 12+ · Trauma & PTSD · Self-esteem · Anxiety · Depression · Relationship concerns

She/her/hers · English

Leslie Pelaez-Diaz, LSW, offers individual therapy for adolescents and adults ages 12 and older. She has worked in the mental health field since 2021 and earned her Master of Social Work from Rutgers University in 2022. Her areas of focus include trauma and PTSD, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns.

If you feel caught in overthinking, self-doubt, or patterns that are difficult to change, Leslie offers a supportive place to explore what you are experiencing. She works with people navigating stress, life transitions, painful past experiences, and difficulty setting boundaries. Together, you can work toward greater confidence, healthier relationships, and practical ways to manage overwhelming emotions.

A collaborative approach to change

Leslie’s approach is compassionate, collaborative, and centered on each client’s needs and strengths. She draws on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed approaches. Her work combines emotional validation with practical skill-building to help clients understand unhelpful thought patterns, regulate emotions, and develop coping strategies.

She also incorporates creative activities, including art, writing, and reflection, to support emotional expression and self-understanding. Sessions can focus on strengthening self-esteem, identifying personal values, setting healthy boundaries, and taking achievable steps toward meaningful change.

What to expect

Leslie aims to create a nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, understood, and respected. Therapy moves at a pace that feels appropriate for you, with space for difficult conversations as well as laughter, lighthearted moments, and recognition of small victories. You do not need to have everything figured out before getting started.

Appointments with Leslie

Leslie works with individual clients ages 12 and older. Please contact our intake team to discuss current availability and appointment options.

Explore individual therapy or all services.