We offer psychological evaluations for immigration purposes. All immigration evaluations are done by an appropriately trained psychotherapist who is experienced in the specific type of evaluation you need for your immigration petition. Immigration evaluations we offer include:
VAWA Evaluations (Violence Against Women Act Immigration Petitions)
Our clinicians have training and experience in domestic violence treatment and evaluation, for both victims and offenders. They understand the process of VAWA petitions and have worked with immigration attorneys to document domestic abuse for VAWA petitions.
VAWA evaluations are used in cases where a person immigrates to the United States (often under a fiancée visa) and marries an American citizen. It can happen that this relationship becomes abusive, with the American citizen as the abuser and the immigrant spouse as the victim. Often, the abuser will threaten the victim with deportation to keep her/him silent about the abuse. When this happens, the victim can leave their abuser and petition US Immigration to be allowed to stay in the United States and eventually receive a Green Card (permanent resident status) by proving that they are being abused by their American husband/wife.
If you already have an immigration attorney for your VAWA petition, we will be happy to work with your attorney. If you do not have an attorney, we can refer you to an attorney who is experienced with VAWA petitions.
Hardship Evaluations for 601-Waiver Cancellation of Removal for Deportation, and J-1 Visa
When an individual faces deportation, this can be a significant emotional and psychological hardship on their family (spouse, children, or elderly parents). A hardship evaluation done by a mental health professional is designed to document and explain this hardship to immigration professionals.
Our clinicians conduct in-depth immigration hardship assessments using both clinical interview and objective mental health tests and assessments to produce the best evidence to support your petition. We collaborate with immigration attorneys locally and nationally, and if you do not have an attorney, we can refer you to a lawyer that is experienced in immigration matters
Psychological Evaluations for Immigration
Sometimes, immigration officials will ask for a Psychological Evaluation that does not fall into one of the other categories described here. In those cases, we will work closely with your attorney to determine the issues that need to be addressed in your evaluation and report. Psychological evaluations are done by qualified, licensed mental health professionals, as required by the specific demands of US Immigration Services for the type of visa or status you are applying for.
For more information please contact us at 210.564.9116 or email info@mindyourselfcounseling.com.