ALAN BEHRMAN & ASSOCIATES

Immigration Evaluations

bt_bb_section_bottom_section_coverage_image

Immigration Psychosocial Assessments: An Overview

Immigration psychosocial assessments are comprehensive evaluations designed to support individuals navigating complex immigration processes. These assessments are particularly crucial for those seeking hardship waivers (601/601a), VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) petitions, U visas, and T visas. The primary purpose of these assessments is to provide a detailed account of the psychological and social factors affecting an individual’s life, which can be critical in immigration proceedings. They serve to illustrate how certain conditions or events have impacted the applicant’s mental health and overall well-being, thereby supporting their case for immigration relief. These assessments are generally conducted by licensed mental health professionals who specialize in understanding the intersection of psychological health and immigration law.

Purpose and Use

The use of psychosocial immigration assessments is multifaceted. They are used to support claims in immigration cases, offering evidence of emotional, psychological, or social hardship that may warrant special consideration by immigration authorities. For example, hardship waivers (601/601a) require proof that deportation or denial of immigration benefits would cause extreme hardship to the applicant or their family members. Similarly, VAWA petitions require documentation of abuse and its psychological impact, while U and T visas require evidence of trauma related to qualified criminal activity or human trafficking. These assessments are presented during immigration hearings or as part of the application package, providing a narrative that underscores the need for immigration relief. Access to these assessments is typically restricted to the applicant, their legal representative, and the immigration authorities involved in the case, ensuring confidentiality and privacy.

Fees and Payment Options

At Alan Behrman & Associates, we strive to tailor immigration psychosocial evaluations to each client’s needs. Since these are not covered by insurance, we offer a flexible payment structure, requiring half of the fee upfront to secure the appointment, with the remaining balance due on the day of the first appointment. This approach ensures clients can plan their finances appropriately while receiving the necessary support for their immigration cases. Additionally, for clients who need expedited reports, we offer rush service for an additional fee, ensuring that urgent cases are handled efficiently and quickly.