About Annette
Annette Leija , Ph.D.
(she/her)
Licensure
Texas Licensed Psychologist - 2021
Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) from the PSYPACT commission - 2024
Education
B.S., The University of Texas at Austin, Psychology | 2011
M.A., The University of Texas at Austin, Educational Psychology | 2016
Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin, School Psychology | 2020
Hello and welcome! I’m a bilingual licensed psychologist based in Austin, Texas, offering therapy in both English and Spanish. I work with children, teens, and adults, and I’m especially passionate about supporting individuals and families as they navigate anxiety, intergenerational trauma, cultural identity, and chronic stress.
As a Latina living with a chronic illness, I bring not only clinical expertise but also lived experience, which deeply informs my approach to care.
With children and teens, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, and perfectionism. I also support families in strengthening communication and connection. I work closely with teens and young adults navigating cultural identity and belonging.
In my work with adults, I provide compassionate support for anxiety, OCD, depression, and complex PTSD (C-PTSD). I have a special focus on helping individuals who are navigating racialized trauma, microaggressions, marginalization, and the emotional toll of chronic health conditions and/or chronic pain.
Outside of the therapy room, I’m a lifelong learner and lover of hobbies. These days, you can usually find me reading, journaling, or water coloring, though I’m always up for discovering something new that sparks joy and curiosity.
Dr. Leija is currently accepting new therapy clients for the following:
In-person and telehealth appointments in Austin, TX
Telehealth appointments in many US states and territories (not including AK, CA, IA, HI, LA, MA, MT, NM, NY, OR, Guam, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands)
Clinical Training & Background
I earned my doctoral degree in School Psychology at The University of Texas at Austin, where I trained across a wide range of settings including schools, community clinics, hospitals, and juvenile detention centers. I received specialized training in integrated behavioral health (IBH), which blends mental and physical health support in primary care settings.
During my APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, I worked closely with medical teams to support children and families, often serving as the first mental health provider they encountered. This experience shaped my passion for reducing mental health stigma and making emotional wellness a routine part of health care.
I later completed advanced postdoctoral training focused on anxiety, OCD, and related disorders, areas that remain central to my work today.
Today, I continue to prioritize compassionate, collaborative care rooted in cultural humility.

At the heart of my work is the belief that healing begins with feeling safe, seen, and supported. I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship and strive to create a space where clients feel welcomed just as you are, free of judgment and full of possibility.
Annette Specializes in
Anxiety and related disorders (e.g., phobias, social anxiety, separation anxiety, perfectionism)
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Depression
Racial Trauma
Children of immigrants
Chronic Illness & Chronic Pain
Insomnia
I’m known for my gentle, affirming approach and for meeting clients where they are in their journey. I work collaboratively with each person to understand their goals, values, and lived experiences, and I tailor treatment to honor their unique needs. After a thoughtful and thorough intake, we co-create a treatment plan that feels meaningful, manageable, and aligned with what matters most to you.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, family challenges, or deeper patterns tied to trauma or identity, I’m here to walk alongside you.
When you're ready to take the next step in your healing journey, I would be honored to connect and learn more about how I can support you.
I integrate a variety of evidence-based approaches, including:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Mindfulness-based strategies
Motivational Interviewing
Parent Management Training
I’d love to hear from you.
To set up a consultation or assessment, feel free to contact me by email.
E: drannetteleija@pivotpsychologyatx.com