My therapist is very thorough, compassionate, supportive and very helpful and a professional
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Leslie
LGBTQIA+, Coping Skills, Infidelity, Self Esteem, Life Transition, Relationships, Anxiety, Depression, Career Counseling, Divorce
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Leslie
Leslie Middleton Walters, EdD, is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 26 years of experience in the mental health field. In times of death, divorce, financial issues, family relational problems, or any issue that brings about episodes of emotional unrest, Leslie believes that it is always best to reach out to someone that can assist with de-escalating fears and re-establishing hope, and provide encouragement to persevere during the dark times. Her primary goal is to help others face their challenges, fears, and become the person that they want to be through the development of lifelong coping skills, in an environment that is accepting and open to individualized thoughts and ideas.
Leslie completed both her Master of Science (MS) in Mental Health Counseling and her Master of Science (MS) in Guidance and Counseling at Fort Valley State University. She went on to complete her Doctor of Education (EdD) in Counseling Psychology at Argosy University. Through the use of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques and other evidenced-based practices, Leslie assists those seeking a brand-new start to let go and accept their past so that they can invest in their future. While her degrees have provided her with the education to engage in expert counseling strategies, it has been Leslie's hands-on experience in helping others that has given her the emotional tools to help those take that first step to a new beginning.
It is because of these experiences, that my counseling practices are built upon a foundation of faith, hope, trust, perseverance, and the understanding that helping others is one of the greatest privileges of my life.
"With over 20 years of experience, I have realized that life situations happen when you least expect it."
What clients say
These testimonials are from real clients who completed a satisfaction survey after their sessions and agreed to share their feedback. Results may vary.
My therapist is very thorough, compassionate, supportive and very helpful and a professional
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Leslie
Get to know Leslie
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
My sister was diagnosed with schizophrenia when she was 16. I had no clue what was wrong. All I knew was that my best friend no longer acted like the sister I knew for my entire life. It confused and saddened me. I wanted to understand mental illnesses. Most importantly, I wanted to help others. In part, because I see my sister in those I'm helping, which always makes me give 110%. My last client of the day, each day, always gets my best, just like my first client of the day.
What types of clients do you work with best?
LGBTQIA+, couples, adults experiencing depression/anxiety/life stressors.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
That change can happen and that the power to change lies within them!
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
When I met with the staff, the energy was amazing and that's what really pulled me in. The explanation of the core foundations of Thriveworks and the mission behind the standards of practice seemed very client driven.
What inspires you?
Life, and a new day, inspires me. My husband died in 2014 from complications of heart failure. I realized then, that everyday is a new day and we either live our life or let our life live us.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
A down to earth counselor who openly acknowledges that I am a guest in their life as we navigate their stressors together. That there is nothing that can't be said in session or discussed. There is no judgement because we are all human.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
To establish the beginning stages of rapport, and to let them know that they are being heard and seen.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?
That I have a very direct approach. That I will hope for them until they are able to hope for themselves. That I am patient and understand that therapy is a journey, not a sprint, and that I'm in this with them for the long haul.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
Exercise at the gym, spend time with my family, go on different traveling adventures (I have traveled to Italy and France), and watch various kinds of TV series.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
I'm spontaneous yet I enjoy having a routine that I can count on. I can also be very silly at times!
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 26 years
- Graduating institute
- Fort Valley State University
- Graduating degree
- Masters of Science Guidance and Counseling
Additional details
Practice information
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