Extreme Hardship Psychological Evaluation
I-601 / I-601A
In an immigration waiver, what’s evaluated is not your suffering but your relative’s: your spouse, or your parent, who is a citizen or resident. Our report shows what that person would go through if you could not stay.
A separation doesn't only hurt the one who leaves
Anxiety, depression, insomnia, health problems that get worse, children asking when dad or mom is coming back. For the relative who stays, separation or relocating to another country can be devastating.
USCIS asks you to show extreme hardship, beyond what a separation normally causes. Figures and medical records help, but the emotional impact needs a professional voice.
The evaluation measures that impact with tests and explains it clearly for the officer.
What you need to know about the hardship evaluation
What is it?
A clinical interview with standardized tests. The result is a report signed by a Licensed Clinical Psychologist documenting how separation would affect your relative’s mental health. It documents the impact on daily life (work, sleep, parenting and relationships), not just the diagnosis.
Who needs it?
Families filing an I-601 or I-601A waiver. The qualifying relative is evaluated and, when helpful, the children’s situation is also described.
Why does it help?
It turns the family’s worry into clinical evidence and connects it to the other factors in the case: health, finances, children and the country you would have to move to.
How long does it take?
About 7 days after the interview. If your case is urgent, choose Express delivery (48 to 72 hours) or 24-Hour Rush delivery.
"You don't have to tell your story perfectly. You just have to tell it the way it happened. We take care of the rest."Dr. Gustavo R. Benejam, Psy.D.
What your extreme hardship evaluation documents
Each section answers what USCIS needs to see in an I-601 or I-601A waiver. The report doesn’t exaggerate or promise an outcome: it describes precisely what the evaluation found.
- IHistory of the qualifying relative and the relationship
- IIEffects of separation or of relocating to the other country
- IIIStandardized psychological tests (anxiety, depression, stress)
- IVDiagnostic impression and risk factors
- VClinical conclusions signed by Dr. Benejam
How it works
Book
Online, by phone or by text. We confirm the exact date and time.
Interview
In your language, at your own pace.
Signed report
For you and your attorney.
Dr. Benejam explains the extreme hardship evaluation
In a few minutes: what the extreme hardship evaluation is for, what the interview is like and what your attorney receives.
A Licensed Clinical Psychologist
signs your report
Your evaluation is led by Dr. Gustavo R. Benejam, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, together with his clinical team. He reviews and signs every report.
Frequently asked questions
about the hardship evaluation
Can’t find your question? Text us at (305) 981-6434.
Who is evaluated, me or my relative?
The qualifying relative: your spouse, or your parent, who is a citizen or resident. If you have children, their situation is also described in the report.
Does it help if my relative has never seen a psychologist?
Yes. Many people have never had a diagnosis. The evaluation identifies what is happening today.
Who has to attend the appointment?
The qualifying relative attends. If it helps to include someone else, we'll let you know when you book.
What happens in the interview?
We talk about your story and you answer a few brief tests. You can take breaks whenever you need.
Does my health insurance cover it?
No. Health insurance, Medicaid and Medicare do not cover psychological evaluations for immigration purposes.
Can I do it by video if I don't live in Florida?
In almost every state, yes, thanks to Dr. Benejam's PSYPACT authorization. Check the state map or text us.
Does the evaluation guarantee approval?
No. No evaluation guarantees an outcome. What it does is document your case with clinical rigor so it is considered in full.
Take the first step today
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