If you are going through an immigration process in the United States, you have probably heard about the psychological evaluation for immigration. This type of evaluation can be a fundamental part of your case, especially if you are applying for a U Visa, T Visa, asylum, or a waiver. However, something very important is often not discussed: what can go wrong in an evaluation and how to avoid it.
In this article, we will tell you about the most common mistakes that can affect the outcome of your psychological evaluation and how to ensure that your case receives the professional support it deserves.
Common mistakes in a psychological evaluation for immigration
1. Not working with a professional who is licensed in your state
One of the most serious mistakes is to have the evaluation done by someone who does not have an active license in the state where you reside.
USCIS requires that the report be prepared by a licensed professional, such as counselor, a psychologist or clinical social worker.
If your evaluator does not meet this requirement, your report may be rejected, even if it is well written.
At Carla Parola Counseling, all professionals are actively licensed in Arizona, California, Florida, New Mexico, South Dakota and Minnesota, and have experience in immigration cases.
2. Brief or generic reports
Another common problem is reports that lack clinical detail or appear to be written in a standardized manner.
The goal of the immigration psychological evaluation is to show how your history, emotions, and symptoms are directly related to your case.
A generic report may weaken your application, as it does not adequately reflect your experience.
A good report should be clear, personalized, and backed by clinical evidence.
3. Lack of communication with the attorney
Communication between the mental health professional and the immigration lawyer is key.
When there is no coordination, important legal details may be missing or relevant aspects of the case may be misinterpreted.
At Carla Parola Counseling, we work closely with attorneys to align the report with the legal strategy of the case, ensuring comprehensive support.
4. Not preparing emotionally for the interview
The clinical interview can bring up difficult memories, especially if you have experienced violence, abuse, or persecution.
Many people do not prepare themselves emotionally and end up blocking or avoiding certain topics, which can limit the evaluator’s understanding.
We recommend that you rest before the appointment, prepare yourself emotionally, and remember that the goal is not to judge you, but to help you tell your story with empathy and professionalism.
5. Not reviewing the report before sending it
It is a good idea to ask to review your report before it is submitted to your attorney or USCIS.
This allows you to check for any errors in dates, names, or personal details.
A simple oversight can lead to confusion or inconsistencies in your immigration file.
6. Choosing a professional without immigration experience
Not all therapists understand the legal and emotional processes of the U.S. immigration system.
An inexperienced professional may fail to include key information or use language that does not meet USCIS standards.
Be sure to choose a team with experience in mental health and immigration.
At Carla Parola Counseling, we have years of experience accompanying individuals and families on their journey to legal residency.
Your story deserves to be told with care.
A psychological evaluation for immigration can be a powerful tool, but only if it is conducted with professionalism and sensitivity.
Avoid common mistakes and trust a specialized team that understands both your personal history and the legal process you are going through.
At Carla Parola Counseling, we help you strengthen your case with detailed and empathetic psychological evaluations.
Contact us today to schedule your evaluation
