Immigration Evaluations
VAWA Psychological Evaluations
VAWA lets survivors of abuse by a U.S. citizen or resident spouse or parent petition on their own — without the abuser's knowledge. A psychological evaluation documents the abuse and its impact, safely and confidentially.
Abuse is not only physical
“Extreme cruelty” under VAWA includes emotional and psychological abuse: threats, coercion, isolation, humiliation, control over money or immigration status. It often happens without witnesses or visible injuries.
The evaluation gives professional weight to experiences that other evidence cannot show — how the abuse affected your emotional well-being, your daily functioning and your sense of safety.
Safe and confidential
Your sessions happen privately over Zoom, in English or Spanish, at times when you can speak freely. Nothing is shared with anyone except you and your attorney.
VAWA protections apply to women and men alike, and to abuse by spouses or parents.
What the report includes
A court-ready report in English documenting:
- The history and pattern of abuse, in clinical terms
- Psychological consequences: trauma, anxiety, depression
- Impact on daily life, work and relationships
VAWA evaluation questions
Will my spouse find out about the evaluation?
No. VAWA self-petitions are confidential by law, and so is your evaluation. Sessions are scheduled privately and no information is ever shared with the abuser.
I don’t have police reports or photos. Does my case still qualify?
Many VAWA cases rest on non-physical abuse with no external evidence. That is exactly where a psychological evaluation matters most — ask your attorney how it fits your petition.
Can men get VAWA evaluations?
Yes. Despite the name, VAWA protections apply regardless of gender.
Other evaluation types
After your evaluation, the journey can continue
The same therapist who documents your story can help you heal it. Many clients continue with trauma therapy or EMDR after their evaluation — no need to retell everything to someone new.
Hope starts with one conversation
Book a session online, or message us on WhatsApp — in English or Spanish.