Immigration Evaluations

Rooted Empowerment therapists have extensive experience working with immigrant families from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. If you're navigating immigration proceedings, your lawyer might have suggested a "psychological evaluation" to support your case. This is because immigration laws say that it's up to the person applying to prove that they're going through emotional distress. The purpose of the evaluation is not to assess how “crazy” you are but rather it helps provide a more comprehensive picture of who you are and assesses the psychological impact the immigration process has on you and/or your family.

We understand that sharing personal experiences can be difficult. Our approach is trauma-informed, confidential, and non-judgmental, ensuring a safe space for you to express your story.

Extreme Hardship Waiver

An Extreme Hardship Waiver application is submitted by a family member that is a legal U.S. Citizen or a lawful permanent resident that would experience extreme hardship if they are separated from or forced to relocate with the non-citizen immigrant.

Types of Evaluations

Asylum Evaluation

Asylum is an application completed with your lawyer if you seek protection for yourself (including spouse and children) due to suffering or thinking you might suffer persecution in your country of origin. The types of persecution suffered could be related to race, religion, nationality, being a member of a social group, and/or due to having a political opinion.

VAWA Evaluation

Individuals applying for immigration relief under VAWA may require a psychological evaluation if they have experienced:
✔ Physical, emotional, or psychological abuse
✔ Intimidation or threats by a spouse, parent, or family member with legal status
✔ Financial control or coercion affecting mental well-being

A well-documented psychological evaluation can strengthen a VAWA petition by providing expert testimony on the emotional toll of abuse. This can help immigration authorities understand the severity of the applicant's experience and their need for legal protection.

U-Visa

The U Visa is a special immigration benefit for victims of serious crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

A licensed mental health professional conducts the evaluation to document the psychological effects of the trauma experienced. This report can provide critical support for the applicant’s case, demonstrating the emotional and psychological impact of the crime.

What to Expect

  • The evaluation consists of:

    • Two 1.5hr-2hr, comprehensive clinical interviews to assess emotional health

    • A review of mental health symptoms related to trauma

    • Standardized psychological assessments

    • Family member interviews, if needed

    • A detailed written report to support your immigration case

FEES

Immigration Evaluation Fee: $1000

Expedited Fee: + $350

Payment Types Accepted: Credit Cards, Zelle, Venmo