What is an immigration mental health evaluation?
An immigration mental health evaluation is an independent clinical assessment that documents an individual’s psychological functioning, relevant history, symptoms, and lived experiences as they relate to an immigration matter. A comprehensive written report is prepared following the evaluation.
What types of immigration evaluations do you provide?
Evaluations may be provided for asylum, extreme hardship, VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, and cancellation of removal matters when clinically appropriate and within the evaluator’s professional scope.
Who can request an evaluation?
Clients may contact Infinite Blossom Counseling directly, or an immigration attorney may make a referral. When an attorney is involved, collaboration may occur with the client’s written authorization.
Do I need an immigration attorney before scheduling an evaluation?
An attorney referral is preferred but is not always required. Because the evaluation is intended to address issues relevant to an immigration matter, clients are strongly encouraged to work with a qualified immigration attorney.
What happens during the evaluation?
The evaluation generally includes a comprehensive clinical interview covering relevant personal, family, migration, trauma, medical, mental health, and psychosocial history. Clinical symptoms and current functioning are also assessed, and relevant records may be reviewed when available.
How long does the evaluation take?
The length and number of interviews depend on the complexity of the individual case. Clients will receive information about the anticipated process when scheduling.
How quickly will my report be completed?
Turnaround time varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether additional records or information are needed. We strive to have reports available within 2–3 weeks following the client’s final interview. Expedited requests may be considered depending on availability.
Will you communicate with my attorney?
Yes. With the client’s written authorization, we can communicate with the referring attorney regarding the purpose of the evaluation, relevant documentation, scheduling, and other appropriate case-related information.
Are evaluations confidential?
Privacy is taken seriously. However, immigration evaluations differ from traditional psychotherapy because information from the evaluation is intended to be documented in a written report and may be shared with the client’s attorney and potentially submitted as part of a legal proceeding. These limits are reviewed with clients before the evaluation begins.
Do you offer virtual evaluations?
Yes. Virtual evaluations are available for appropriate clients who are physically located in Massachusetts or Rhode Island at the time of the clinical service, consistent with applicable licensure requirements. In-person appointments may also be available.
Do you speak Haitian Creole?
Yes. Evaluations are available in both English and Haitian Creole, allowing Haitian Creole-speaking clients to complete the clinical interview directly with the evaluator.
Do you accept insurance for immigration evaluations?
No. Immigration mental health evaluations are private-pay services and insurance is not accepted for these evaluations. Fees and payment expectations are discussed before scheduling.
Does an evaluation guarantee that my immigration case will be approved?
No. An immigration mental health evaluation is an independent clinical assessment and does not guarantee or predict the outcome of an immigration matter. Immigration decisions are made by the appropriate legal authorities.
Do you provide legal advice?
No. Infinite Blossom Counseling provides clinical mental health evaluation services and does not provide legal advice. Questions regarding immigration law, eligibility, petitions, or legal strategy should be discussed with a qualified immigration attorney.
Do you complete Form N-648?
No. Form N-648 Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions is not offered. Immigration evaluations are provided within the professional scope of a Licensed Mental Health Counselor.
How do I get started?
Clients and attorneys may contact Mirdith Remy-Valeus, LMHC at [email protected] or 508-290-0210 to inquire about an evaluation or make a referral.