KEYRIS MANZANARES: As President Donald Trump cracks down on immigrants living in the United States illegally, some Richmond Public School students fear stricter policies could impact them and their families.

As these fears mount, accessing mental health services is critical.

At Huguenot High School, where nearly 40% of the student body is Latino, some students rely on bilingual therapy services provided through nonprofit organization ChildSavers.

LISSETTE COREAS: I've seen a theme of clients just expressing fear, especially because of their own status.

And so there's been conversations about it's like, what happens if I get sent back and then what will my life look like?

And then, you know, is this even worth it then?

Should I even come to school?

Should I even try hard anymore?

Because, you know, they jump straight to deportation.

KEYRIS MANZANARES: Lissette Coreas, a school- based ChildSavers therapist, says the new administration's focus on immigration compounds students concerns.

LISSETTE COREAS: A lot of anxiety, a lot of depression, trauma that they've experienced within early childhood, or just life stressors that are going on, whether it's at home, whether it's here at school or both.

KEYRIS MANZANARES: Like Coreas, psychologist Lorena Suárez says while she can't change what students are facing, she can create a safe space for them to express themselves in her after-school program.

(Speaking Spanish) KEYRIS MANZANARES: The purpose, Suárez says, these hands-on activities help Latino students develop coping techniques to better handle their trauma.

(Speaking Spanish) KEYRIS MANZANARES: Keyris Manzanares, VPM News.