Immigration Evaluations

Compassionate, Culturally-Aware Assessments to Support Your Immigration Case

At Serene Solutions Counseling & Consulting Services, we specialize in conducting psychological evaluations that support immigration petitions by documenting the emotional and psychological impact of immigration-related hardship and trauma. Each evaluation is conducted with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and clinical expertise.

We understand the stakes are high. While we cannot promise a specific outcome, studies have shown that including a psychological evaluation can double the likelihood of a successful immigration case. Our goal is to help you present your story clearly, thoroughly, and with the professional validation needed to strengthen your legal petition. We provide evaluations for individuals in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida and Massachusetts.

Types of Immigration Evaluations

Extreme Hardship Waiver (I-601 / I-601A)

This evaluation documents the psychological, emotional, and functional impact that a potential deportation or removal would have on a qualifying U.S. citizen or permanent resident—often a spouse, parent, or child.
We explore:

  • How separation would impact their mental health and day-to-day life

  • Financial, medical, and emotional challenges they would face

  • Cultural or safety concerns related to relocation

    This type of evaluation can play a critical role in demonstrating that the hardship goes beyond what is typically expected in family separation.

VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)

For individuals (of any gender) who have experienced domestic abuse by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or family member.
The evaluation focuses on:

  • Documenting the emotional and psychological effects of the abuse

  • Establishing a clinical history of trauma, anxiety, depression, or PTSD

    Validating the survivor’s account in a trauma-informed, nonjudgmental space

    Our goal is to support survivors in telling their story with dignity and clinical support while helping legal professionals advocate for their safety and independence.

U-Visa

This visa is available to victims of certain qualifying crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution.
The evaluation documents:

  • The nature and extent of the emotional harm caused by the crime

  • Symptoms of trauma, including anxiety, depression, or PTSD

  • The ongoing psychological impact of the event(s) and the client’s recovery

    We ensure a safe, supportive space to explore sensitive details while building a strong clinical case.

T-Visa

Designed for survivors of human trafficking, this evaluation focuses on establishing the psychological effects of exploitation and abuse.
It includes:

  • A comprehensive trauma history

  • Assessment of emotional functioning and current symptoms

  • Cultural and safety considerations

  • Documentation to support the survivor’s ability to remain in the U.S. safely

    We approach each case with deep compassion and cultural humility, recognizing the unique experiences of trafficking survivors.

Asylum

For individuals seeking protection in the United States due to past persecution or fear of future persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
This evaluation includes:

  • A detailed trauma and migration history

  • Assessment of psychological symptoms related to persecution or fear of return

  • DSM-5 diagnostic impressions supported by clinical measures

  • Relevant scientific literature on the psychological impact of trauma, torture, displacement, and cultural loss

    These evaluations are particularly helpful in conveying the long-term emotional consequences of the persecution experienced.

What to Expect: The Evaluation Process

Each immigration evaluation is a multi-step process designed to ensure a thorough, clinically sound, and legally appropriate report. The process includes:

  • Two Comprehensive Appointments: Each session is approximately two hours and conducted via secure telehealth (or in-person where available).

  • Record Review: With your consent, we review relevant medical, psychological, academic, or legal documents to support the evaluation.

  • Attorney Collaboration: If you are working with an attorney, we will coordinate with them to ensure the evaluation aligns with your legal strategy and case type.

What’s Included in the Final Report

Your written evaluation is a comprehensive, court-ready document that includes:

  • Personal, family, and immigration background

  • Review of medical and psychological conditions

  • Current emotional and mental health functioning

  • Identified hardship factors

  • Results of mental status exam and clinical assessment tools

  • Applicable DSM-5 diagnosis

  • Summary of findings and clinical recommendations

  • Relevant scientific research (e.g., the impact of family separation or trauma on mental health)

Reports are typically completed within 2–3 weeks of your final session. Expedited reports (5–7 business days) are available for an additional fee.

How to Prepare for Your Immigration Evaluation

To ensure a smooth and efficient process, we ask clients (and/or their attorneys) to complete the following steps before the evaluation begins. These steps will help your clinician gather the necessary information to complete a thorough and well-documented report.

✅ Step-by-Step Preparation Guide:

1. Schedule Your Appointments
 You’ll need two 2-hour sessions to complete the evaluation interviews. These sessions are conducted via secure telehealth unless otherwise arranged.

2. Submit Authorization to Share Information
 We’ll provide you with a release form so your clinician can coordinate with your immigration attorney and other professionals (such as doctors or educators) whose insight may strengthen your case. Please have names and contact details available at the time of your session.

3. Make a Timeline of Key Life Events
 This should include important dates such as births, marriages, separations, divorces, immigration milestones, and changes in legal status. These details help provide context for your evaluation.

4. Gather Medical and Mental Health Records
 Please collect documentation for yourself and immediate family members, including current diagnoses, treatment history, and a list of medications being taken.

5. Collect School Records (if applicable)
 If children are part of your case, please provide any educational evaluations, special education plans (IEPs), or behavioral reports that may demonstrate how the case affects their well-being.

6. Share Legal and Family Documentation
 Bring any relevant court records such as marriage licenses, divorce decrees, custody agreements, or protection orders.

7. Provide Any Criminal History Documents
 If you have a criminal record, include a summary or official documents related to your history to ensure full transparency and accuracy.

8. Submit USCIS Correspondence and Case Documents
 Share any immigration-related documents you've received—such as notices, denial letters, or pending forms—to help us align your evaluation with your case type.

Important Disclaimer

We conduct independent psychological evaluations to assist with immigration cases, but we are not part of the legal decision-making process. An evaluation does not guarantee a favorable outcome, but when paired with legal representation, it can significantly strengthen your petition.