How To Prepare For An Immigration Evaluation

Man Filling Out Immigration Evlaution Forms

At Lakeside Counseling, we understand the importance of providing support and services to individuals facing various life challenges. Immigration is one such challenge, and for those seeking to enter or remain in a new country, the immigration process can be both complex and emotionally demanding. One essential aspect of immigration procedures that many may not be aware of is the Immigration Psychological Evaluation.

WHAT IS AN IMMIGRATION PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION?

An Immigration Psychological Evaluation, also known as an Immigration Psychological Assessment or Immigration Psychological Exam, is a comprehensive assessment conducted by a licensed mental health clinician. This evaluation aims to assess an individual's mental and emotional well-being, focusing on whether they are fit for immigration, asylum, or other related legal processes.

HOW TO MENTALLY PREPARE FOR YOUR EVALUATION:

BEFORE YOUR EVALUATION:

Looking after your mental health during this time is important. The evaluation process can be stressful, so you may find it useful to include stress-relieving relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness and deep breathing, in your daily routine to manage your mental wellbeing.

Building a support system of family and friends you can rely on and share your experiences with can also be helpful during this journey. Sometimes, simply talking about your experience with someone who cares can be incredibly therapeutic and help you feel less isolated.

If you have any questions or concerns, don’t be afraid to reach out and seek advice from a mental health professional. They can offer guidance and valuable insights into this process.

AFTER YOUR EVALUATION:

You will likely spend a lot of time and energy preparing for this evaluation, so give yourself permission to take a break after your evaluation and engage in activities that bring you peace and relaxation.

Try immersing yourself in a hobby or activity you love and limiting your exposure to stress triggers. Restrict the amount of time you spend watching the news or engaging in conversations that might increase your anxiety. Instead, focus on positive and uplifting content to prioritize your mental health.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING AN IMMIGRATION PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION:

The process may vary depending on the specific requirements and circumstances of each case. However, generally, an Immigration Psychological Evaluation involves:

  • Clinical Interview: The mental health clinician will conduct a clinical interview to assess the individual's mental health history, symptoms, and any relevant experiences.

  • Psychological Testing: Psychometric testing may be administered to assess the individual's cognitive and emotional functioning. Common assessments include the MMPI-2, BDI-II, and PCL-5.

  • Diagnosis: The mental health clinician may make a diagnosis, if appropriate, and assess the individual's level of distress or impairment.

  • Functional Impairment: The mental health clinician will determine if the individual's mental health condition substantially impairs their ability to function in daily life or carry out immigration-related activities.

  • Report: A detailed report summarizing the evaluation findings is then provided, which can be submitted as part of the immigration application or presented in immigration court.

HOW TO CHOOSE A THERAPIST FOR YOUR EVALUATION:

Choosing the right clinician for your evaluation is crucial to ensure that your assessment is comprehensive and accurate.

When choosing a therapist, you may want to consider a therapist who speaks the same language as you, because it is important you feel comfortable and able to speak freely with them.

No matter what, you should always choose a therapist who is qualified and experienced in providing Immigration Psychological Evaluations.

At Lakeside Counseling, our clinicians who provide Immigration Assessments and Evaluations are highly qualified and culturally competent. We understand the challenges of immigration and how mental health can impact this process, and we approach these evaluations with empathy and compassion. We offer evaluations in both English and Spanish to ensure we create a welcoming space where we are able to best serve the cultural and unique needs of our clients.

AT LAKESIDE COUNSELING, WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING EVALUATIONS:

  • Asylum

  • U Visa

  • VAWA Visa

  • T Visa

  • Hardship

Our rates are $1300/evaluation and the evaluation sessions are anywhere from 2-4 hours in total. We will also offer a payment plan where 50% is paid at the time of the booking and the second 50% is paid 24 hours before the first evaluation session is to take place. You can find more information here.

By providing this valuable service, we aim to support individuals on their path to a better life in a new country, fostering understanding, empathy, and compassion throughout the immigration process. If you have any questions or need guidance on immigration-related psychological evaluations, please don't hesitate to reach out to Lakeside Counseling, where we're dedicated to providing the care and expertise you need during this crucial stage of your journey.

If you or a loved one are looking for support for any of the evaluations listed above, please get in contact with us today, we're currently in the process of offering immigration evaluations. Email us at therapy@lakesidecounsel.com or contact us on (608)889-7173 for more information.

Katie Lindskog