Psychological Evaluations for Asylum Cases
An asylum psychological evaluation documents the applicant's symptoms and whether they are consistent with the persecution described.
Call Sandra: 1-202-519-8104What this case type is
Asylum protects people who have been persecuted, or have a well-founded fear of persecution, in their home country because of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group. Affirmative cases are filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Defensive cases are raised in immigration court.
Asylum generally has to be requested within one year of arrival, with exceptions for changed or extraordinary circumstances. Under 8 CFR 208.4, extraordinary circumstances can include serious illness or mental disability, including effects of past persecution, during the first year after arrival. The application must still be filed within a reasonable period after those circumstances.
What the evaluation looks at
- The applicant's psychological symptoms and whether they are consistent with the persecution the applicant describes.
- Whether the applicant's symptoms may affect memory, the order in which events are recalled, or how they present when describing what happened.
- When relevant to a late filing, the applicant's mental health during the first year after arrival.
- The applicant's current functioning and any treatment needs.
The written report states Sandra's findings as what the available information supports. The attorney decides how to use it in the case.
Who conducts the evaluation
Sandra Arboleda, LICSW, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, conducts evaluations directly in English or Spanish.
Evaluations are conducted by telehealth for clients in 40 states and jurisdictions.
Questions
Can the evaluation address the one-year filing deadline?
Yes, when the attorney asks for it. The evaluation can describe the applicant's mental health during the period in question, based on the available information.
Does Sandra evaluate clients in detention?
Yes, where the facility allows video visits. When you refer, include the facility and your client's case type.
Can the evaluation be done in Spanish?
Yes. Sandra Arboleda conducts evaluations directly in English or Spanish.