Marivel Leija
Therapy Intern
supervised by Marissa Lecaros, lmft-associate
Pronouns: She/Her/Ella
Base Rate: $80/60-minute billable counseling session (53+ minutes of service)
Supporting: Adults | BIPOC | LGBTQ+ | College Students | Teens
Specializing In: Anxiety | Depression | Career Development | LatinX Populations | LGBTQ+ | Cultural & Ethnic Identity Exploration | First or Second Generation Individuals | Gender Exploration | Family of Origin Issues | Familial Conflict | Life Transitions | Multicultural Counseling | Relationship Issues (Individual) | Empowerment | Social Justice/Advocacy | Stress | Trauma | Trauma-Informed Therapy
Marivel is especially well-suited to support
Individuals struggling with career development or exploration
Individuals going through life transitions
Individuals struggling with anxiety or depression
Individuals exploring their identity and authenticity
Individuals navigating family challenges
A little about Marivel
Hi, I’m Marivel (she/her/ella)! I am a student in the Clinical Mental Health program at Adams State University. Originally from South Texas,I’ve called Austin home for the past nine years, where I’ve embraced the city’s vibrant culture and thriving music scene.With extensive experience in career counseling across both higher education and community-based settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for guiding individuals toward achieving their goals. My diverse background fuels my commitment to supporting others on their personal and professional journeys.
Why I do this work
What drew me to the world of therapy is my deep passion for helping individuals navigate life’s transitions, especially when those changes involve anxiety, depression, and redefining one's identity. My own experiences with imposter phenomenon and career shifts have given me a profound appreciation for the interplay between emotional and practical challenges during times of change. I’m driven by the opportunity to support clients as they uncover their authentic selves and create lives that reflect their true values. I am deeply dedicated to supporting diverse populations and striving to make therapy more inclusive and accessible for people from all backgrounds.
My approach to therapy
My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in collaboration, tailoring each session to the client’s specific goals and needs while emphasizing authenticity and personal growth. I primarily integrate existential therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), feminist theory, and queer theory to foster a space of exploration, responsibility, and meaningful change. Techniques from existential therapy help clients uncover the freedom and responsibility they hold in shaping their lives, while CBT and DBT provide structured tools to identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors while building emotional regulation skills. Feminist and queer theories guide my commitment to addressing power dynamics, validating lived experiences, challenging societal norms, and creating an affirming space for marginalized identities.
Education + Experience
I received my bachelor degree from Texas A&M Corpus Christi in psychology. After completing college, I pursued various roles centered around helping and supporting others before returning for my masters. This work experience helped solidify my passion for counseling. My time as a career advisor was especially formative, as I worked closely with clients to help them secure employment aligned with their career goals and their values. Now, as a graduate student at Adams State University, I am deeply committed to developing culturally responsive counseling practices. This unique journey has taught me the importance of resilience, authenticity, and embracing non-linear career paths as I work toward becoming a professional counselor.
On a personal level
I’m a music lover who finds healing and inspiration in songs and albums, often using them as a way to reflect and recharge. I grew up in a small rural town, surrounded by the rich beauty of Mexican traditions, which continue to shape my values and perspective. Having been in therapy myself, I understand firsthand the courage it takes to ask for help and the vulnerability that comes with the process, especially when you’re the first in your family! Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my dogs Lana and Mika, exploring nature, playing Stardew Valley and finding joy in small, meaningful moments.
Favorite place in Austin: The Little Gay Shop and Book Woman
Favorite Saturday afternoon activity: Going roller skating at Pins and Wheels at Playland with a great playlist!
Favorite self-care tip: Journaling! When in doubt write it out.
Favorite quote or affirmation: “Home is what you take with you, not what you leave behind.” NK Jemisin The Fifth Season (The Broken Earth trilogy)
I feel most calm & content when: I am playing video games or when I’m watercoloring a scenic setting.
I love learning about:New craft projects! Currently I’m learning to sew.