Latinx youth face higher rates of depression and suicide risk compared to their peers, with significant disparities across gender and LGBTQ+ identities. The InVita Lab advances research on the cultural and social factors shaping mental health in these communities. Our team develops and tests evidence-based, culturally responsive interventions to address depression, suicidality, and trauma—working to reduce disparities and support healing for youth and families.

The name InVita carries dual meaning:

• In Latin, vita means “life” or “being.”
• In Spanish, invita refers to the act of inviting.

This duality reflects our mission: to invite individuals to embrace life and their authentic selves — who they are, and who they are becoming. Through our research, clinical innovation, and community partnerships, we strive to foster resilience, connection, and hope.

The InVita Lab is directed by Yovanska Duarte-Velez, PhD, a child and family psychologist at Bradley Hospital.

About Our Research

The InVita Lab is dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of Latine youth and their families. Our research focuses on understanding the cultural and social factors that shape experiences of depression, trauma, and suicidality, and on developing treatments that are responsive to the unique needs of our communities.

Previous studies have shown that socio-cognitive behavioral therapy for suicidal behavior (SCBT-SB), developed by our team, is more effective than standard care in reducing depressive symptoms, suicidal behaviors, and self-harm among Hispanic youth after a suicidal crisis. Building on this work, we are now testing new models of care, collaborating with families, and studying how trauma and cultural context affect mental health. Our goal is to reduce disparities, provide effective and culturally relevant interventions, and promote healing across generations.

Research Team