In this mixed-methods study, we are developing and validating the Measure of Immigration-Related Stress, Trauma, and Strengths in Children (MIST-C), an interview-based clinical questionnaire. It is designed to identify stressors, trauma, and healing processes affecting the psychosocial wellbeing and mental health of immigrant, asylum-seeking, and refugee children. The tool adopts a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach. It will undergo pretesting and piloting at clinical and community sites in multiple geographic locations nationally for psychometric validation. The tool will support clinical, advocacy, and community-centered research goals.

The PRIMES clinic integrates educational advocacy, case management, community-supported telehealth, in-person DBP care, and access to legal aid. This clinical initiative aims to address the inadequate and inequitable access to developmental-behavioral pediatric (DBP) care for racially marginalized and largely immigrant communities. In our feasibility study, we are using mixed methods approaches to explore experiences and outcomes, including wait times, patient/family satisfaction, and staff/community views on feasibility, to inform a novel trauma-informed care program that is sensitive to the distinctive needs of this community. The program is a collaboration between ALAS, San Mateo County Legal Aid’s Family Advocacy Program (FAP), and Stanford Children’s Health Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics (DBP).

These qualitative studies investigate the effects of cultural arts programs on the well-being and mental health of immigrant youth. We have conducted interviews and focus groups to explore natural leadership resources and cultural richness of both parents and youth, as well as how cultural arts programs contribute to their well-being and mental health. We're particularly interested in understanding how these programs influence identity, family dynamics, and community well-being. This work aims to guide interventions and stimulate further exploration into the role of strength-based, culturally-grounded programs in mental health and educational settings that honor traditional indigenous healing practices. This body of work underscores the healing and community-building potential of cultural arts, while also highlighting the pressing need to address the psychological impacts of children and parents' documentation status on well-being in the United States. The findings will inform program development and policy priorities to support this community and bridge social and health disparities.