Living with an unresolved immigration status is a nightmare for the individual and for our Country. For the individual, this means living in the “shadows” of society, keeping a low profile, and fearing being noticed or identified as an “illegal immigrant”. Even more, it’s the fear of losing the American Dream for them and for their families. In the meantime, being in limbo results in multiple negative consequences for the individual that can include, among others: limited access to medical/mental healthcare, exploitation (wages, unfair treatment), and mental health issues (acculturation challenges, stressful lifestyle, etc.).
For our Country, it means not being able to benefit from the full potential, skills, and contribution that individuals could make if given the right opportunity to flourish. It would translate into economic growth and, in turn, increased government revenues that can then be reinvested. A positive cycle!
So, really, the issue is how can we help immigrants to become an integral part of our community and society. Yes, there is a need for our Country to define and implement the proper immigration strategy. However, in the meantime, helping with immigration waiver cases, such as extreme hardship, (VAWA) spousal abuse, political asylum, and U visas can facilitate improved possibilities for many.
Here’s where Immigration Psychological Evaluations play a significant role in supporting the immigration process and in working together with an immigration attorney. As a brief reflection, having an immigration attorney becomes a very important step in ensuring the best protection and process for the immigrant.
A large reason as to why psychological evaluations are highly recommended for immigrants is because of the leverage they can provide when dealing with immigration waiver cases. Immigration Evaluations, in essence, help identify the immigrant’s (and, as applicable, that of the family) mental and emotional state in the context of the specific immigration case.
This is done following a methodical and scientific process that includes the Clinical Interview and the administration and scoring of valid psychological instruments. The information and results of this process are then integrated into a report that clearly identifies the severe risks associated with a potential removal. This applies not only to the immigrant but also, in some hardship cases, to family members that are USA Citizens/Residents who would be severely affected by a possible removal.
The end result of this process not only helps in establishing a strong, positive case for the immigrants and their families but also helps in identifying areas that need to be addressed. Specifically, the hardships that most immigrants and their families endure very often contribute to multiple, possible mental health issues. It is highly common to find the presence of depression, anxiety, and PTSD in these groups. The Immigration Evaluation also helps in identifying these illnesses and, importantly, in recommending specific treatments.
In the end, the goal is to help the immigrants and their families not only remain in the USA but also to feel fully integrated and part of this great nation.
The best-proven path to resolve immigration situations is to consult with an immigration attorney and then, as applicable, leverage the power and benefits of a professional Immigration Psychological Evaluation.
