Background
Thousands of children attempt to emigrate to the U.S. each year from Latin America. Many have experienced significant trauma, and the process of reunification with families after prolonged separation is a known stressor. School-based group therapy has the potential to connect this vulnerable population with mental health resources. Through a collaboration with school-based caregivers, therapists, and pediatricians, a five-module curriculum for recently immigrated youth called FUERTE (Family Reunification and Resiliency Training) was created. After refining FUERTE’s modules using stakeholder focus groups, the program was successfully piloted across schools city-wide...