What to Expect in a Mental Health Immigration Evaluation: A Guide for First-Time Clients

Learn what to expect in a mental health immigration evaluation, including how diagnoses are determined and how the report can strengthen your VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, Asylum, or Hardship Waiver case. Trauma-informed, bilingual evaluations available in CA, OR, and AZ.

Key Takeaways

• Mental health evaluations provide essential clinical evidence in immigration cases like VAWA, U Visas, T Visas, Asylum, and Hardship Waivers by documenting the emotional impact of your experiences through a licensed therapist’s assessment.

• A diagnosis is always included in the final evaluation report and helps immigration officials understand the emotional effects of trauma, abuse, fear, or separation. This clinical insight is key to strengthening your case.

• The process is trauma-informed, private, and culturally sensitive. You don’t need to have prior experience with therapy—your therapist will guide you gently and respectfully through the evaluation process.

• Your final report includes your personal narrative, observed symptoms, a mental health diagnosis, and professional insight, all framed to support your immigration petition clearly and compassionately.

• Evaluations are available in both English and Spanish via virtual sessions across California, Oregon, and Arizona, with in-person appointments in Chula Vista, CA.

What Is a Mental Health Immigration Evaluation?

A mental health immigration evaluation is a written clinical report created by a licensed therapist. This document is used as part of your immigration case and explains how your mental and emotional health has been affected by trauma, abuse, hardship, or fear.

Your attorney uses this report to show immigration officials how your experience has impacted your well-being—and why you may need legal protection or relief under U.S. immigration law.

What Happens During the Evaluation?

You will meet with a licensed therapist—either in person or via telehealth—who will:

• Ask about your personal history, family background, and important life experiences

• Explore events that may have caused harm, fear, or emotional distress

• Discuss emotional symptoms you may be experiencing, such as anxiety, sadness, fear, disrupted sleep, or difficulty focusing

• Create a safe, supportive environment where you feel respected and heard

Evaluations typically take 2 to 3 hours and may be completed in one or two sessions depending on your needs.

Will I Be Diagnosed?

Yes. A diagnosis is always included in the immigration evaluation. As part of the clinical assessment, the therapist will determine a mental health diagnosis based on the symptoms you describe, your history, and clinical observations made during the interview. This is a standard and necessary part of the evaluation process, and it helps immigration officials understand the emotional and psychological impact of your experiences.

It’s important to know that receiving a diagnosis does not mean you are being judged or labeled—it’s a clinical way to describe how your mental and emotional health has been affected by trauma, abuse, or hardship. The diagnosis is presented in a clear, compassionate, and culturally sensitive manner to support your immigration case.

What Will the Final Report Include?

Once the evaluation is complete, your therapist will create a formal report that includes:

• Your personal history and relevant life experiences

• Clinical symptoms and emotional struggles you are currently facing

• A professional mental health diagnosis

• Clinical observations and insights that connect your emotional health to your immigration case

• A trauma-informed, culturally appropriate narrative tailored for your legal team

The completed report will be securely delivered to your attorney or directly to you, depending on your preference.

English & Spanish Evaluations Available

We offer evaluations in both English and Spanish to ensure that you feel fully understood and supported in the language that’s most comfortable for you.

Available in California, Oregon, and Arizona

Nueva Vida Therapy provides evaluations virtually across California, Oregon, and Arizona, with in-person sessions available in Chula Vista, CA.

Schedule Your Appointment

If you or your attorney are ready to move forward, we’re here to support you.

Call or text: (619) 728-9330
Visit: www.Nueva-Vida-Therapy.com