Psychological Evaluation for SIJS
Special Immigrant Juvenile Status
If a young person under 21 was abused, abandoned or neglected by one or both parents, they may apply for SIJS. First they need an order from a state court. Our report helps the judge understand what the young person went through.
Behind every case is a young person who needs stability
A parent who was never there, beatings, hunger, child labor, gang threats. Many young people arrive with scars no one can see and find it hard to talk about them.
The state court judge has to decide whether reunification with one or both parents is viable and whether returning to their country is in their best interest. A psychological evaluation gives the judge clinical grounds to decide.
We listen to the young person patiently, in their language, and document their story and emotional state.
What you need to know about the SIJS evaluation
What is it?
A clinical interview with age-appropriate tests. The result is a report signed by a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. It documents how what they lived through affects their daily life: school, sleep and relationships.
Who needs it?
Unmarried young people under 21 who suffered abuse, abandonment or neglect by one or both parents.
Why does it help?
It supports the young person’s story before the state court and what returning to that parent or to their country would mean for them.
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 the SIJS evaluation documents
Each section answers what the state court and USCIS need to see. The report doesn’t exaggerate or promise an outcome: it describes precisely what the evaluation found.
- IHistory of the young person and their family
- IIAbuse, abandonment or neglect they experienced
- IIIAge-appropriate psychological tests
- IVDiagnostic impression and their best interest
- 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 SIJS evaluation
In a few minutes: what the SIJS 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 SIJS evaluation
Can’t find your question? Text us at (305) 981-6434.
Can their mother, father or guardian come along?
Yes. We speak first with the adult who cares for them and then with the young person alone, if appropriate.
Does the young person have to tell everything?
Only what's needed, at their own pace. They can take breaks whenever they need.
Does it apply if they have already turned 18?
SIJS can be requested until age 21, but state court deadlines vary by state. Check with your attorney as soon as possible.
Is it available in Spanish?
Yes, in English, Spanish or Portuguese.
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
We reply during office hours. Your call or message is confidential.