Immigration Evaluations

Psychological evaluations in immigration cases play a crucial role in accurately assessing and documenting the mental health experiences of individuals seeking immigration benefits. These evaluations serve to provide an objective and informed perspective to immigration officials, potentially influencing decisions that can have a profound impact on individuals' lives.

Typically, an evaluation consists of a clinical interview with a mental health professional followed by a number of psychological instruments to assess the client’s current symptoms and personality characteristics. Results from the instruments are then scored and interpreted, and they are integrated into the narrative gathered from the interview.  A report is then drafted and sent confidentially to the client or to the attorney handling the case.

Immigration laws place the burden of proof on the applicant or beneficiary to show psychological distress. This is often aided by a psychological assessment or expert testimony by a qualified mental health professional.

Our clinicians at IPP have been specifically trained to provide this service. It is important that our clients feel safe and comfortable during the evaluation process. Whenever possible, we strive to accommodate our clients' needs, including being able to carry out the assessment in their preferred language. We speak English, Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, and Tagalog, and we employ professional interpreters who speak other languages and dialects.

Our providers at IPP specialize in all types of immigration cases, such as:

  • Asylum/Withholding of Removal

  • Cancellation of Removal

  • Certification for Disability Exceptions (N-648)

  • Competency

  • Convention Against Torture

  • Hardship Waivers

  • Special Immigrant Juvenile Status

  • U Visa

  • T Visa

  • VAWA

Asylum seeker

Maria’s Asylum Story

Maria and her young child fled Honduras after she witnessed the murder of her husband at the hands of a ruthless drug cartel. Fearing for her own life and the safety of her child, she made the difficult decision to flee her homeland and seek asylum in the United States… (READ MORE)

Families Belong Together -

The Aguilars’ Story

The Aguilars, a close-knit family, were on their way to celebrate their son's 5th birthday when their world was abruptly shattered… (READ MORE)

VAWA - Lucy’s Story

Lucy met John, a US citizen, when he was traveling in her home country, Nigeria. She fell in love, and they married shortly after she arrived in the United States. Lucy’s dream of a bright future turned into a nightmare when she became a victim of domestic violence.… (READ MORE)