Immigration Evaluations

As the daughter of immigrants and with loved ones who have navigated the immigration system, I understand how complex, painful, and hopeful this process can be.

My commitment is to provide clinical evaluations with respect, cultural sensitivity, and professional ethics.


Group of people holding hands and facing the ocean during sunset on the beach.
A man and woman embracing outdoors in a green, wooded area, with the man kissing the woman's forehead.
Three elderly women playing a game of Mahjong around a wooden table in a cozy living room.

What do you need to know about immigration evaluations?

An immigration evaluation is a process in which an individual's mental health and psychological well-being are assessed to determine their suitability for immigration or to address specific immigration-related concerns. It is conducted by a licensed mental health professional specializing in such evaluations.

Some examples of immigration cases include:

  • The concept of extreme hardship acknowledges that the removal of an individual from a country can have severe consequences for the person being deported and their immediate family members who may be legally residing in that country. The evaluation aims to determine if the hardship faced by the qualifying relative(s) would reach a level considered extreme, surpassing the typical hardships that would be expected in a deportation scenario.

  • The U nonimmigrant status (U visa) is set aside for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.

    T nonimmigrant status (T visa) is a temporary immigration benefit that enables certain victims of sex trafficking or labor trafficking to remain in the United States for an initial period of up to 4 years if they have complied with any reasonable request for assistance from law enforcement in the detection, investigation, or prosecution of human trafficking or qualify for an exemption or exception.

  • Noncitizens who have been abused by their U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative have the ability to independently petition for themselves (self-petition) for immigrant classification without the abuser’s knowledge, consent, or participation in the immigration process. This allows victims to seek both safety and independence from their abusers.

  • Each year, individuals seek protection in the United States because they have experienced persecution or fear they will experience persecution based on their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. An asylum evaluation documents the psychological and emotional impact of these experiences and supports the individual’s application for protection under U.S. immigration law.

Two women sitting in bed, one using a smartphone and the other reading a book, with a small dog lying on the bed near them.
A family of three enjoying a meal on a balcony. The woman wearing a white hat and black dress, the girl with curly hair in a white dress, and the man with a tattoo on his arm and a light pink shirt are eating Asian food from bowls. There is a table with drinks, a plate of snacks, and a sunflower in a vase.

What is the process like?

There are several steps, but no worries! I can walk you through the process. Different evaluators have different steps; here are mine:

  • During our consultation call, I will gain a clearer understanding of your case. I will also ask for your attorney’s information so I can communicate with them and ensure we are aligned on the type of evaluation needed.

    During this call, I will share important details, including appointment availability, fees, and expected timelines.

  • The evaluation is scheduled for at least two hours, though it may take longer depending on your case.

    During the first part of the evaluation, I will meet with you to learn about your upbringing and the broader life experiences that have shaped your journey. The second part will include more structured assessments and questionnaires.

    The evaluation will conclude with clinical recommendations and, when appropriate, referrals to additional resources.

  • After your interview, I will begin writing the evaluation report. This process typically takes about two weeks.

    I may communicate with your attorney for limited purposes, such as confirming the type of immigration relief you are seeking, clarifying documentation, or coordinating delivery of the final report.

    The content and conclusions of your psychological evaluation are based solely on clinical findings and my independent professional judgment.

Fees

Evaluation Interview + Evaluation Report: $800

Have any questions or ready to schedule? Reach out!