Immigration Psychological Evaluations

This is a type of assessment which purpose is to document the psychological impact or trauma of past persecution or fear of future harm due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. 

 

Evaluation Includes:

• Trauma history (e.g., PTSD, anxiety, depression)

• Corroboration of abuse or torture

• Functional impairment and fear of return

The purpose of this assessment is to demonstrate that a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) would suffer “extreme hardship” if a noncitizen relative were deported or denied entry.

 

Evaluation Includes:

• Emotional/psychological impact on qualifying relatives

• Health conditions, caregiving roles, financial dependence

• Risk factors related to relocation or separation

This evaluation supports immigrant survivors of domestic abuse in self-petitioning for legal status without the abuser’s knowledge or involvement.

 

Assessment Includes:

• History of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse

• Trauma symptoms (e.g., PTSD, low self-esteem, anxiety)

• Impact of abuse on daily functioning and mental health

Immigrants who have been victims of certain qualifying crimes and who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result could benefit from this type of evaluation

 

 Assessment Includes:

• Detailed trauma narrative

• Psychological effects of the crime (e.g., fear, hypervigilance, depression)

• Clinical evidence of abuse-related symptoms

The purpose of this evaluation is to support victims of human trafficking (labor or sex trafficking) in gaining protection and legal status.

 

Evaluation Includes:

• Severe trauma documentation

• Mental health symptoms resulting from trafficking

• Barriers to recovery and reintegration

This type of evaluation demonstrates the exceptional and extremely unusual hardship that deportation would cause to a U.S. citizen or LPR relative (often a child or spouse).

 

Evaluation Includes:

• Psychological impact on family members (especially children)

• Behavioral, academic, or emotional functioning of dependents

• Unique hardship factors (e.g., disability, mental health conditions, special needs)