Frequently Asked Questions
How does the forensic mental health evaluation process work?
Dr. Vega’s forensic mental health evaluations consist of a one-on-one interview with the applicant, which includes several assessments. These assessments reveal the applicant’s psychological state and are used to support their cases with immigration. Dr. Vega combines the interview and the assessment results and writes a report that can credibly support the petition. Additional testing may be performed, depending on the applicant’s immigration situation and need.
Dr. Vega conducts thorough forensic mental health evaluations, which involve an in-depth review of relevant documents, including medical and psychiatric records, an examination of personal and family history, mental status evaluation, clinical interview, and assessment results. He provides assessments with significant credibility by utilizing objective tools to assess signs of cognitive and psychological distress. In addition to the clinical evaluation, he also places great importance on the personal narrative of the individual and their loved ones. By delving into the severity of the hardship and psychological distress experienced, Dr. Vega creates a comprehensive and compelling narrative that identifies and articulates each situation. Immigration applicants must seek a trained and experienced professional to conduct a mental health or psychological assessment, as lacking one can result in a denied application.
Dr. Vega worked as a psychotherapist for the immigrant population and, as a trauma-informed professional, understands the true impact of loss and emotional and physical abuse and conveys the short and long-term effects of these experiences in his evaluations.
What methodology is used to support my case?
Dr. Vega employs evidence-based techniques to assess each applicant's mental health and requirements carefully. His interviews are conducted comfortably for the applicant to gather as much relevant information as possible to bolster their case. Subsequently, Dr. Vega collaborates closely with the attorney to effectively communicate the immigration hurdles the applicant faces.
When will my evaluation be ready?
The report normally takes 3 to 4 weeks from the interview until Dr. Vega completes the draft. Expedited draft evaluations are possible for an additional charge and have a 1-week turnaround.
Where will the interview process take place?
Dr. Vega conducts his evaluations through HIPAA-approved video conferencing.
What is the cost of your evaluations?
The cost for each evaluation may vary. Dr. Vega accepts payments through major credit cards, Zelle, and PayPal. We also offer payment plans, reduced evaluation costs, and, in some exceptional cases, pro bono evaluations. If you need more information, please feel free to contact me.
Area of Practice
To be evaluated, you must be referred by the attorney handling your immigration case. Your lawyer will determine the type of visa you can apply for. The information provided in this section is for informational purposes and is subject to change. Your lawyer is the appropriate person to inform you and discuss any questions or concerns you may have regarding your particular legal situation.
U-visa Evaluation
These evaluations are intended for individuals who have been victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. The U nonimmigrant status (U-Visa) is available for victims of specific crimes who have experienced physical or mental abuse and have provided assistance to law enforcement agencies and government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.
VAWA Evaluations
Evaluations aimed at spouses, children, and parents who have been subjected to abuse or extreme cruelty by a US citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR). The abuse can be physical, psychological, sexual, or mental, and the victim must have resided or currently reside with the abuser.
T-visa Evaluation
These evaluations should focus on victims of human trafficking who are in or have entered the United States due to trafficking. They must have assisted or agreed to assist law enforcement authorities in investigating traffickers in their case (this is a requirement only for adults), and they would suffer extreme harm if deported from the United States.
Asylum Evaluations
Asylum evaluations are designed for individuals who must initially satisfy the refugee definition outlined in the Immigration and Nationality Act. This entails having a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a specific social group.