IMMIGRATION PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS FAQs

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1. What Is an Immigration Psychological Evaluation?

An immigration psychological evaluation is a comprehensive clinical assessment that documents the emotional and psychological impact of trauma, abuse, violence, or other significant experiences relevant to an immigration case. Evaluations may support U Visa, VAWA, asylum, and hardship waiver (I-601) cases.

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2. Who May Benefit From an Immigration Psychological Evaluation?

Individuals applying for U Visa, VAWA, asylum, or hardship waivers (I-601) may benefit from an evaluation when psychological symptoms or emotional hardship are relevant to their case. Each evaluation is individualized based on the client's circumstances.

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3. What Can I Expect During an Immigration Psychological Evaluation?

The evaluation is designed to provide a thorough understanding of your emotional and psychological experiences. Depending on your case, the evaluation may include:

• Comprehensive clinical interviews, conducted in person or virtually

• Review of relevant personal, family, and psychosocial history

• Assessment of psychological symptoms and diagnostic considerations, when appropriate

• Evaluation of trauma history and its emotional impact

• Use of psychological assessment measures

• Clinical findings and professional recommendations, when applicable

• A comprehensive written psychological report

 

4. How Long Does an Immigration Psychological Evaluation Take?

Most evaluations involve two 1.5-hour interviews scheduled approximately one week apart, for a total of about three hours of interview time. The exact timeline may vary depending on the complexity of the case.

Additional time is needed to review relevant records and information, communicate with the attorney, when applicable, and complete the written psychological evaluation report.

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5. Do You Provide Immigration Psychological Evaluations in Spanish?

Yes. Immigration psychological evaluations are available in English and Spanish. I provide a culturally sensitive and compassionate approach throughout the evaluation process.

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6. Do I Need to Provide Any Information?

Yes. Before or on the day of your appointment, you will need to provide the following:

• Complete a questionnaire, which will be sent to you by email before your first appointment.

• Sign a release of information allowing me to coordinate your evaluation with the attorney or paralegal handling your case.

• Provide your police report and relevant medical records, if applicable.

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​7. Do I Need an Immigration Attorney to Schedule an Evaluation?

An attorney is not required to schedule a psychological evaluation. However, an immigration attorney can help you understand your legal case and determine whether an evaluation may be appropriate. I provide the clinical evaluation and psychological documentation, not legal advice.

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A Note About Immigration Psychological Evaluations

Please consult with your immigration attorney to determine whether a psychological evaluation may be appropriate for your case and what type of evaluation they recommend. I provide clinical evaluations and psychological documentation and do not provide legal advice.

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Ready to learn more? Schedule a Confidential 15-Minute Consultation or Contact Me with your questions.

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