Clinical Immigration Evaluations in Arizona: Trauma-Informed, Culturally Responsive Assessments

Professional psychological evaluations for immigration cases—prepared by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with advanced training in trauma and cultural responsiveness. Serving individuals and attorneys throughout Arizona.

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Professional Assessments That Humanize Your Story

Clinical immigration evaluations are detailed psychological assessments prepared by licensed mental health professionals to support immigration cases. These evaluations provide courts and immigration officials with an informed clinical perspective on the psychological impacts of trauma, hardship, and lived experience.

Conducted by Iliamari Vázquez Houston, LCSW | Bilingual Services Available | Comprehensive 10-15 Page Reports | Available for Asylum, U Visa, T Visa, VAWA, Hardship Waivers, and Cancellation of Removal Cases

 It gives voice to experiences that are often difficult to articulate, documents the emotional and psychological toll of trauma or separation, and offers a professional assessment that helps decision-makers understand the full human impact of a case.
At With An Open Heart, we approach immigration evaluations with the same trauma-informed, culturally responsive care we bring to all our work. We understand that sharing your story—especially in the context of immigration proceedings—requires courage, trust, and safety.

A well-prepared evaluation can make a powerful difference in immigration proceedings.

  • Trauma-informed interviewing that honors your pace and comfort
  • Cultural awareness and sensitivity to immigrant experiences
  • Bilingual services available in English and Spanish
  • Comprehensive reports that center your humanity, not just clinical criteria
  • Clear communication throughout the process
  • Respect and dignity in every interaction

What Makes Our Evaluations Different:

Immigration Evaluations We Offer

We provide clinical immigration evaluations for the following case types:

Asylum Evaluations

For individuals seeking protection in the United States due to persecution or fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

These evaluations document the psychological impact of past persecution or trauma experienced in your home country and the mental health consequences of returning.

We assess symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related conditions that support your asylum claim.

U Visa Evaluations

For victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.

U Visa evaluations document the psychological harm you experienced as a result of the crime.

We assess the severity and impact of trauma, providing a clinical perspective that supports your eligibility for U Visa protection.

T Visa Evaluations

For victims of human trafficking who are in the United States as a result of trafficking and would suffer extreme hardship if removed.

T Visa evaluations document the psychological impact of trafficking, including trauma, coercion, and control. We assess the mental health consequences of your trafficking experience and the hardship you would face if required to leave the United States.

VAWA Evaluations (Violence Against Women Act)

For individuals who have been abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent.

VAWA evaluations document the psychological effects of domestic violence, abuse, and trauma within intimate relationships. These evaluations support self-petitions by demonstrating the mental health impact of the abuse you experienced.

Extreme Hardship Evaluations (I-601 / I-601A Waivers)

For individuals seeking waivers of inadmissibility based on extreme hardship to a qualifying U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative.

Extreme hardship evaluations assess and document the significant emotional, psychological, and practical hardship that your qualifying relative (spouse, parent, or child) would experience if you were denied entry or removed from the United States. We examine factors such as medical conditions, mental health, family bonds, cultural and language barriers, and country conditions.

Cancellation of Removal

For individuals in removal proceedings who have been in the United States for at least 10 years and whose removal would cause exceptional and extremely unusual hardship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or child.

These evaluations document the extraordinary level of hardship that your qualifying family member would experience if you were removed. We assess the cumulative impact of separation on mental health, family stability, and wellbeing.

Serving Individuals, Attorneys, and Organizations

Individuals: If you're navigating an immigration case and believe a psychological evaluation could support your application, we're here to help. You can contact us directly to schedule a consultation, even if you're not yet working with an attorney.

Immigration Attorneys: We work collaboratively with immigration attorneys throughout Arizona and beyond. We understand the legal requirements for different case types and prepare reports that meet the standards necessary for submission to USCIS, immigration courts, and consular offices. We're responsive, professional, and committed to supporting your clients with dignity and care.

Community Organizations: We partner with immigrant services organizations, legal clinics, and advocacy groups to provide accessible, high-quality evaluations for community members in need.

Investment & Payment Options

Evaluation Fee: $800 This flat rate includes:
  • Initial consultation
  • Up to two 90-minute clinical interviews (in-person or virtual)
  • Comprehensive 10-15 page evaluation report
  • Report delivery to you or your attorney
  • Follow-up support and clarification as needed

Payment Plans Available: We understand that immigration cases come with significant financial costs. Payment plans are available to make evaluations more accessible. A 50% deposit is required to begin the evaluation process.

Payment Methods: We accept credit cards, debit cards, and payment plans.

Rush Service: If you need an evaluation completed on an urgent timeline, rush services are available for an additional fee. Discuss your timeline during the initial consultation.

Important Note: Immigration evaluation fees are separate from therapy services and are not covered by insurance. However, you may be able to use the evaluation report to support related claims or applications.

Let's work together

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers about our resources, languages, and how to request what you need.

Q: Do I need an attorney to request an evaluation?

No. While many people work with immigration attorneys, you can contact us directly to request an evaluation even if you're representing yourself or are still in the process of finding legal representation.

Q: How long does the evaluation process take?

Most evaluations are completed within 2-4 weeks from the initial interview. The timeline depends on scheduling availability and case complexity. Rush services are available if you have an urgent deadline.

Q: Can the evaluation be conducted in Spanish?

Yes. Iliamari is bilingual and can conduct the entire evaluation process—from interviews to the final report—in Spanish or English based on your preference.

Q: Will I need to provide documentation?

Yes. Your attorney (or you, if self-represented) will need to provide background information and relevant legal documents to help us understand your case. We'll discuss specific documentation needs during the initial consultation.

Q: Is the evaluation confidential?

The evaluation is prepared for legal purposes and will be shared with your attorney and submitted as part of your immigration case. While the content is not strictly confidential in the therapeutic sense, we treat all information with professionalism, sensitivity, and respect.

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