Psychological Evaluations for U Visa Cases
A U visa psychological evaluation documents how a qualifying crime has affected the applicant's mental health.
Call Sandra: 1-202-519-8104What this case type is
The U visa is for victims of certain crimes that occurred in the United States or violated U.S. law, such as domestic violence, sexual assault or felonious assault, who have been, are being or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement or other officials investigating or prosecuting the crime (INA 101(a)(15)(U)).
One of the requirements is that the victim suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime. A psychological evaluation addresses the mental side of that requirement.
What the evaluation looks at
- The applicant's psychological symptoms and functioning since the crime.
- Whether those symptoms are consistent with the reported experience of the crime.
- How the effects have shown up in work, family, sleep, relationships and daily life.
- Any history that helps place the symptoms in context.
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
Does the applicant need a police report before the evaluation?
No. The evaluation documents the applicant's psychological condition. The U visa petition does require a law enforcement certification (Form I-918, Supplement B), which the attorney handles separately.
Which part of the U visa does the evaluation relate to?
The requirement that the victim suffered substantial physical or mental abuse because of the crime. The evaluation speaks to the mental side.
Can the evaluation be done in Spanish?
Yes. Sandra Arboleda conducts evaluations directly in English or Spanish, which matters when someone is describing painful experiences.