The information below is educational and describes the clinical focus that may be relevant in different types of immigration matters. It is not legal advice and does not determine whether an individual qualifies for a particular immigration benefit. Questions regarding legal eligibility or strategy should be directed to a qualified immigration attorney.
Asylum Mental Health Evaluations
An asylum-related mental health evaluation may clinically assess and document psychological symptoms and functioning in the context of experiences such as persecution, violence, threats, displacement, loss, or other traumatic events. The evaluation may explore trauma-related symptoms, emotional functioning, the psychological impact of past experiences, and other clinically relevant factors. The evaluator does not determine whether the legal requirements for asylum have been met.
Extreme Hardship Mental Health Evaluations
An extreme hardship mental health evaluation may assess the psychological and psychosocial impact that separation, relocation, disruption of care, family circumstances, or other relevant stressors may have on an individual or qualifying family member. The clinical assessment focuses on mental health symptoms, functioning, relationships, health-related considerations, and other psychosocial factors when relevant. Legal determinations regarding extreme hardship are made by the appropriate immigration authorities.
VAWA Mental Health Evaluations
A VAWA-related mental health evaluation may assess psychological symptoms and functioning in the context of reported abuse, coercion, control, intimidation, trauma, or other relevant experiences within a qualifying relationship. The evaluation may document the mental health impact of those experiences while maintaining clinical objectivity and trauma-informed interviewing. The evaluator does not determine legal eligibility for VAWA relief.
U Visa Mental Health Evaluations
A U Visa-related mental health evaluation may assess the psychological impact of reported victimization or trauma and document symptoms, functioning, and other clinically relevant consequences associated with those experiences. The evaluation is clinical in nature and does not determine whether a reported event meets legal definitions or whether an individual qualifies for a U Visa.
T Visa Mental Health Evaluations
A T Visa-related mental health evaluation may assess psychological symptoms and functioning in the context of reported trafficking, exploitation, coercion, or related traumatic experiences. The evaluation may document trauma-related symptoms, emotional functioning, and other clinically relevant effects while using a trauma-informed approach. Questions regarding legal eligibility for a T Visa should be addressed by an immigration attorney.
Cancellation of Removal Mental Health Evaluations
A cancellation of removal-related mental health evaluation may assess psychological and psychosocial factors that are clinically relevant to the individual or affected family members. Depending on the referral question, this may include symptoms, functioning, family relationships, caregiving responsibilities, health-related concerns, anticipated disruption, and other relevant circumstances. The evaluator provides clinical findings and does not determine whether the legal standard for cancellation of removal has been met.
Important Scope Information
All evaluations are provided when clinically appropriate and within the professional scope of a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Form N-648 Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions is not offered. Immigration mental health evaluations do not constitute legal advice and do not guarantee any immigration outcome.