Immigration Mental Health Evaluations
About immigration evaluations
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Rachel conducts thorough mental health evaluations as part of immigration court proceedings. She couples interview findings with clinical observations, a full mental status exam, clinical literature, interpretation of assessment tools and clinical recommendations to write comprehensive and thorough reports. She is consistently regarded for her ability to communicate complex clinical concepts to legal and forensic audiences. Her areas of expertise include assessing and treating PTSD, mood disorders, attachment ruptures and substance abuse and is experienced with evaluating survivors of persecution on the basis of factors such as ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, political affiliation or due to community violence. Evaluations can be done in-person or via secure teleconference.
Types of evaluations provided:
Extreme hardship/I-601A
Cancellation of removal
Asylum
U Visa
T Visa
VAWA
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Immigration Evaluation FAQ
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How can an immigration evaluation help my case?
An independent evaluation and written report can be of enormous help in immigration proceedings. The evaluation will assess for the past and potential areas of hardship and suffering and any particular circumstances unique to your case that should be taken into account. These can include familial, medical, psychosocial, financial, religious and cultural factors that a trained clinician can assess for. You will also complete several screening instruments which will be scored, analyzed and included in the report. Please keep in mind that evaluations are considered objective and unbiased; pursuing an evaluation does not guarantee any particular finding, nor is it guaranteed to help your case.
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How do I prepare?
It is helpful to prepare by gathering your thoughts on past life experiences, general dates and timelines and the reasons you are making your immigration request. You may consider bringing a loved one for support as the interviews can be overwhelming and intensive. If you have any past or current medical or psychiatric diagnoses, please bring a written list of your diagnoses and the names and dosages of any medications.
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How long does the process take?
The initial appointment lasts 2-3 hours with an additional follow-up consultation by phone prior to submitting the evaluation. Rachel will send a draft report to your lawyer within 10-15 business days. All immigration evaluation clients have the option of an additional in-person or tele therapy session to help focus on wellness planning and coping skills. Expedited reports in emergency cases can be requested for an additional fee and are subject to availability.
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What do I need to bring to my appointment?
A valid, government-issued photo ID for all individuals being assessed and any legal or medical documents relevant to your case such as a personal statement or past treatment records.
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Where can the evaluations be done?
In-person evaluations can be performed in Washington, DC and Maryland. State licensing regulations also allow for tele-evaluations to be conducted in several other states. Please contact us if you live in another state and are wondering if Rachel is able to provide services​
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How does payment work?
Clients have the option of paying in several installments, at least half is due at the time of the interview. If you are concerned about the amount or timing of the payment due, feel free to contact us to discuss your concerns. Payment is accepted by cash, card or check. Reduced fee services are available on a limited basis, with priority given to non-profit community partners.
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Can you provide referrals for other follow-up services?
Rachel carries a small caseload of therapy clients. We work closely with clients to determine a follow-up plan of care, and work to link clients with referrals for mental health providers that are accessible and language-appropriate. We have also referred clients for services such as insurance linkage, medical and dental care, and other community resources. Rachel is intimately familiar with community referrals in DC and Maryland and takes great care to ensure her clients receive the follow-up support they need.
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In what languages can the interview be done?
Interviews can be done live in English or Spanish. Translation can be arranged for clients needing additional language services with advance notice.
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I'm an immigration lawyer. What can I expect when working with you?
Excellent communication, objective assessment, honest recommendations, compassionate care and expertly-written reports.
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Do you provide expert testimony in immigration court hearings?
If you would like to speak with Rachel about providing expert testimony, please contact her to see if your needs are within her scope of clinical expertise. Expert testimony in court is not guaranteed and subject to availability.
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