Abstract
This project highlights how the unique environmental and ethnocultural experiences of Latino youth residing in Richmond, California impact their mental health. A combination of an ecological perspective and critical diversity theory are applied to examine risk and protective factors that impact mental health outcomes specific to Latino youth residing in Richmond. A total of 8 high school students were recruited from Richmond Cal Prep to participate in a photovoice project. This qualitative method is used to assess knowledge and evaluate the perceived barriers to mental health services. The findings reflected three themes deeply rooted in Latino cultural values and community cultural norms: 1. Family 2. School, Success and Overall Excellence 3. Balance and Identity.