Obianujunwa Anakwenze, PhD

Dr. Anakwenze is a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents who present with complex trauma histories, anxiety and mood disorders, and elevated risk for psychosis. She provides evidence-based, developmentally appropriate care that integrates cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior and acceptance-based approaches, with careful attention to the therapeutic relationship and family dynamics as central to emotional development and lasting change. Her clinical approach emphasizes collaboration with caregivers and cultural/contextual responsiveness. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Anakwenze remains actively involved in research and training.

Personal Statement

I believe that effective mental health care is collaborative, compassionate and grounded in evidence. I work closely with children, adolescents and caregivers to understand each family’s goals, strengths and challenges, and I tailor treatment to fit their developmental, cultural and contextual needs. I place strong value on the therapeutic relationship as a foundation for healing, and I strive to create a supportive space where young people feel understood, safe and empowered to build skills that promote long-term wellbeing.

Clinical Interests

Trauma- and stress-related disorders; mood, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders; early-onset bipolar spectrum conditions; early psychosis risk and psychotic-spectrum symptoms in youth; suicide risk assessment and prevention; culturally responsive mental health care; psychological assessment.

Education

Organizations

Board Certification

Honors and awards

2023-2024

Dr. Mary Joan Werthman Memorial Fellowship, Fordham University 

2021-2024

Ford Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship, National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine 

2018-2024

Richard and Eileen Bennett Distinguished Assistantship, Fordham University 

* Texas Children’s Hospital physicians’ licenses and credentials are reviewed prior to practicing at any of our facilities. Sections titled From the Doctor, Professional Organizations and Publications were provided by the physician’s office and were not verified by Texas Children’s Hospital.

Research interests

Culturally responsive and equity-focused mental health interventions; trauma and stress in children, adolescents and families; mental illness stigma and its impact on clinical outcomes; global and cross-cultural mental health; disparities in access to evidence-based mental health care.