Waleska Narvaez, LCSW 203 297-8775

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I believe that healing begins and grows within a collaborative, trusting relationship—one where you feel truly seen, heard, and valued. Therapy is not about judgment, pressure, or having all the answers right away. It’s about creating a connection where you can safely explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences with honesty and openness. My intention is to offer a space where you can show up exactly as you are—sin miedo, sin juicio—without feeling like you have to hide parts of yourself. Here, your voice matters, your story is honored, and your pace is respected.

I understand that starting therapy can feel vulnerable, even intimidating at times. Sharing your story with someone new is not always easy, especially if you’ve had experiences where you didn’t feel understood or supported. That’s why I focus on building a strong, authentic connection from the very beginning. I want you to feel comfortable enough to be real, to ask questions, and to express whatever is on your mind. This is your space, and together we will shape it in a way that feels safe and meaningful for you.

As a Latina from New York City, I bring a culturally sensitive and grounded perspective to my work. I recognize how deeply our identities, cultures, and life experiences shape the way we see ourselves and move through the world. Culture can influence everything—from family expectations and communication styles to how we understand mental health and healing. I approach each client with curiosity and respect, taking the time to understand your unique background and what matters most to you. Whether we speak in English, Spanish, or a natural mix of both, I want you to feel at home in our conversations. A veces, the most meaningful expressions come in the language that feels closest to your heart, and you are always welcome to bring your full self into the room.

I specialize in working with adults who are navigating co-occurring mental health and substance use challenges. I know that these experiences can feel overwhelming, complex, and at times isolating. There is often a deep connection between emotional pain and the ways we try to cope with it, and my goal is to help you understand that connection with compassion rather than criticism. You are not defined by your struggles or by the coping strategies you’ve used to get through difficult moments. Together, we will explore patterns, identify underlying needs, and develop healthier, more sustainable ways of coping that align with your goals and values. This work takes time, patience, and trust, and I will be there with you every step of the way.

I also have experience supporting individuals and families impacted by intimate partner violence. I understand the courage it takes to speak about these experiences and the complexity that often comes with them. My approach is rooted in creating a space that feels safe, validating, and empowering. Whether you are processing past trauma, navigating present challenges, or working toward rebuilding your sense of self, I will meet you with care, empathy, and respect. Healing from these experiences is not linear, and it often involves reconnecting with your sense of strength, identity, and autonomy. You do not have to go through that process alone.

In addition to these areas, I work with individuals who are managing everyday life stressors. Sometimes it’s not one specific issue, but rather the accumulation of many things—life transitions, relationship challenges, family dynamics, cultural expectations, or the general pressures of daily life. These experiences can feel heavy and difficult to carry on your own.

Therapy can be a place to pause, reflect, and make sense of what you’re going through. Poco a poco, we can work together to help you feel more grounded, more connected to yourself, and more equipped to handle life’s challenges with confidence and clarity.

My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and person-centered. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all method. Instead, I tailor our work to fit your individual needs, drawing from evidence-based practices while staying flexible and responsive to what feels right for you. I value authenticity in the therapeutic relationship and show up as my genuine self, creating space for you to do the same. I may gently challenge you at times, always with care and intention, to support your growth and help you move toward the life you want.

I also believe deeply in your resilience. Even if it doesn’t always feel that way, you have already navigated so much to get to where you are today. There is strength in your story, and part of our work together is helping you reconnect with that strength. Therapy is not about “fixing” you—because you are not broken. It’s about understanding yourself more deeply, healing from what has hurt you, and building a life that feels more aligned with who you are and what you value.

At the heart of my work is the belief that everyone deserves a space where they feel they belong. A space where you don’t have to explain or defend your experiences, where your identity is respected, and where your growth is supported with compassion and care. I strive to create that space for every person I work with.

If you are considering therapy, whether for the first time or returning to it, I want you to know that you don’t have to have everything figured out before you begin. Showing up is enough. From there, we can take it step by step—paso a paso—building a path forward that feels meaningful and true to you. I would be honored to walk alongside you in that journey, offering support, guidance, and respeto every step of the way.