Immigration Mental HEalth EvaluationS
Asylum Cases
If you or your client is seeking asylum in the United States, a mental health evaluation can play a crucial role in supporting the case. As a licensed clinical social worker experienced in writing assessments, I provide detailed, trauma-informed evaluations that document the psychological impact of past persecution or fear of future harm.
My asylum evaluations include:
- A comprehensive clinical interview and mental health assessment
- Documentation of symptoms related to trauma (e.g., PTSD, depression, anxiety)
- An explanation of how psychological distress may have affected memory, behavior, or delay in filing
- Clear, professional reports written to meet immigration court standards
These evaluations are conducted with cultural sensitivity, confidentiality, and compassion—ensuring clients feel safe and supported throughout the process.
Extreme Hardship Waiver Evaluations
An Extreme Hardship Waiver can be a vital step for immigrants facing family separation due to inadmissibility. As a licensed clinical social worker, I provide professional mental health evaluations that help demonstrate the emotional and psychological impact that separation or relocation would have on a qualifying relative who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
My evaluations include:
- A thorough clinical interview with the qualifying relative (e.g., spouse, parent, or child)
- Assessment of psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders
- Evaluation of circumstances that may intensify hardship (e.g., medical conditions, caregiving responsibilities, financial instability, educational disruptions, or cultural barriers abroad)
- A detailed report that clearly explains why the hardship rises beyond the typical impact of family separation
Each evaluation is tailored to the unique circumstances of the family and meets the evidentiary standards required by USCIS.
VAWA Evaluations (Violence Against Women Act)
VAWA provides a pathway for certain immigrants who have experienced abuse by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or adult child to petition for legal status independently. A mental health evaluation can offer critical support by documenting the emotional and psychological effects of the abuse.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I offer trauma-informed, culturally sensitive evaluations that focus on the unique circumstances of each survivor.
My VAWA evaluations include:
- A comprehensive clinical interview and assessment of psychological symptoms related to abuse (e.g., PTSD, depression, anxiety)
- Evaluation of the dynamics of power and control in the relationship
- Documentation of emotional, physical, or psychological harm
- A professional opinion on the credibility of the survivor’s account, when appropriate
- Psychoeducation about the impact of domestic violence, including less visible forms such as coercive control and emotional abuse
I provide a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space for clients to share their experiences.
Services are conducted with care and professionalism via secure video platforms for residents in DC, VA, FL, and NH.