Frequently Asked Questions
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How can a hardship evaluation increase my chances of staying in the country?
Hardship evaluations conducted by a mental health professional can provide clear, convincing, and critical evidence for immigration waivers. As an expert diagnostician, I build strong, compelling cases for why the deportation of a non-citizen would cause deep psychological and emotional harm for a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. My medical background, combined with extensive experience working with patients suffering from acute trauma, informs my approach to assessments. I understand how existing stresses and anxieties in families will be amplified by deportation, informing my persuasive, effective evaluations. In addition to making the case for why staying in the country is imperative for my clients and their loved ones, I also offer recommendations for psychopharmacology and effective therapy modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
2. What does the evaluation process entail?
A typical evaluation consists of 4-6 sessions over a brief period of time. Immigration authorities require consistent information over time and in some cases from various sources. That makes our honest, detailed, and in-depth conversations crucial to the success of your case. To show how deportation may cause extreme physical, emotional, medical, and/or financial hardship for a U.S. citizen who is separated from a non-citizen loved one, transparent interviews with a spouse, parent, or child may be required.
3. What is a trauma-informed approach?
I’ve worked closely with patients experiencing acute trauma for over a decade. My approach is rooted in empathy and compassion, and I balance the need for safety with a sharp diagnostic ability. This means I don't shy away from tough questions to get to the root of an issue. The stakes are high for many of my patients. They may face persecution, civil unrest, and crime should they be deported. A lack of opportunities, medical treatment, or key resources are also possible consequences. For many families, relocation to maintain unity is also challenging and dangerous. These very real and dire concerns are always top of mind when getting to know my clients and their unique situations.
4. What are your rates, and do you offer payment plans?
Typically, insurance does not cover medical hardship evaluations. We see patients from all backgrounds and of various means, so please reach out even if you’re experiencing financial hardship. Our team can create payment plans to accommodate your financial situation.
5. Where are appointments held?
Sessions are held virtually or in-person at my Westchester office.
6. What information do you need to complete the evaluation?
Your medical records and additional background help me create a comprehensive clinical picture of your unique situation. The more information I have to drawn on in my evaluation, the more thorough my psychiatric assessment will be. For example, records that attest to an ongoing history of trauma can strengthen your case for remaining in the U.S.
