What to Look for in a Therapist for a U Visa Psychological Evaluation
If you’re searching for a therapist to complete a U visa psychological evaluation, you may be wondering what qualifications to look for and how the right professional can help strengthen your immigration case. As a licensed therapist in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida, I specialize in trauma-informed mental health assessments that support U visa petitions. While I am not a licensed psychologist, I am qualified to complete comprehensive clinical evaluations—commonly referred to as "psychological evaluations"—that meet the evidentiary standards required by USCIS.
What Is a U Visa?
The U visa is a form of immigration relief for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.
To be eligible, you must show:
You were the victim of a qualifying crime (e.g., domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking)
You suffered substantial mental or physical abuse as a result
You are cooperating, or have cooperated, with law enforcement
A mental health evaluation—often referred to as a "psychological evaluation"—provides credible, clinical documentation of how the crime has affected your emotional and psychological well-being. This assessment can play a key role in establishing that you meet the eligibility criteria.
Why Is the Evaluation So Important?
An evaluation serves as evidence that the abuse or trauma you experienced has resulted in substantial mental harm. The report is submitted to USCIS by your immigration attorney and can significantly strengthen your case when prepared thoroughly and professionally.
The evaluation helps:
Document symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other trauma-related conditions
Provide a clinical timeline linking the crime to your current emotional state
Demonstrate the ongoing impact on your daily functioning, safety, or stability
Show that your experiences are consistent with patterns observed in other trauma survivors
What Should You Look for in a Therapist for a U Visa Evaluation?
Not all therapists are trained or experienced in immigration-related mental health assessments. Here’s what you should look for:
✅ 1. Licensed Mental Health Professional
The evaluation must be conducted by a licensed therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist. I am licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida, and I meet all requirements to complete immigration-related mental health evaluations for USCIS.
✅ 2. Experience With Immigration Evaluations
Therapists unfamiliar with the immigration process may not know how to structure a report that meets legal and evidentiary standards. I have completed specialized training through the Immigration Evaluation Training Center, equipping me with the skills to write evaluations that are both clinically sound and legally relevant. I have experience working with U Visa, VAWA, T Visa, and hardship waivers, and I understand exactly what immigration attorneys and USCIS expect from a well-prepared evaluation.
✅ 3. Trauma-Informed Approach
Because U visa applicants are survivors of serious crimes or abuse, the therapist must understand how trauma affects memory, behavior, and mental health. I use a compassionate, trauma-informed approach that creates a safe space for you to share your story.
✅ 4. Clear, Objective, and Legally Sound Reports
USCIS expects evaluations to be written in a neutral, clinical tone. I provide detailed assessments that are:
Clear, professional, and evidence-based
Tailored to the specific requirements of a U visa petition
Supportive of your case without exaggeration or emotional language
✅ 5. Timely Completion and Attorney Collaboration
I work with your immigration attorney to ensure the report supports your legal strategy. Evaluations are typically completed within 3 weeks, with faster turnaround available if needed.
Why Work With Me?
I bring both clinical experience and immigration-specific training to every evaluation I complete. Here’s how I can help:
✅ Licensed in NC, SC, and FL
✅ Trauma-informed care for survivors of abuse, assault, and crime
✅ Evaluations that meet USCIS standards and attorney expectations
✅ Virtual appointments for privacy, accessibility, and convenience
✅ Compassionate, thorough support through every step of the process
Ready to Begin?
If you need a U visa evaluation in North Carolina, South Carolina, or Florida, I’m here to help. I offer confidential virtual sessions and will ensure your evaluation is completed with the care, professionalism, and attention your case deserves.
📍 Licensed in NC, SC, and FL
🖥️ Virtual sessions available
📩 Schedule your free phone consultation today!
