New Pathways
Immigration Evaluations
Who I Work With
Services
Immigrant Clients
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If you're an immigration client, your attorney may have recommended completing an immigration evaluation to help strengthen and support your case.
While immigration evaluations are not therapy, the process of completing a psychological evaluation can offer an opportunity to reflect on your experiences. Many find that this process helps them feel empowered and can be a meaningful first step toward healing.
While I can’t guarantee specific outcomes, including a psychological evaluation can significantly increase the likelihood of your case being approved.
My fees are competitive, and I offer an installment payment plan to clients
Immigration Attorneys
My detailed and comprehensive reports are delivered promptly, allowing you to proceed with your case with minimal stress and delays. As a bilingual and bicultural mental health clinician, I can provide a thorough evaluation that captures the full scope of your client’s immigration story. This includes examining psychological and physical conditions, trauma history, family dynamics, and more—while translating clinical findings into clear, straightforward conclusions that align with what judges expect.
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I offer psychosocial evaluations for immigration cases for use in the following situations:
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Hardship Waivers (I-601 and I-601A)
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Cancellation of Removal
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VAWA and Spousal Abuse
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U-visas
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T-visas
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Asylum, Withholding of Removal, and Convention Against Torture
My Approach
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My work is conducted online through a secure, encrypted, HIPAA-compliant platform that meets rigorous confidentiality standards. Your personal and sensitive information is handled with the highest level of care and privacy, in strict adherence to ethical guidelines.
I am committed to a holistic approach to conducting immigration evaluations. I understand that the immigration journey is complex, involving not just legal aspects but also the emotional and psychological well-being of each individual. My approach prioritizes creating a compassionate and supportive environment that fosters openness and a sense of safety.
​What Happens During the Evaluation?
During the evaluation process, we will schedule one or more appointments, typically lasting two to three hours, involving an in-depth clinical interview and, if necessary, additional assessments or testing. Following this, I will prepare a comprehensive evaluation report to be sent to your attorney. The report may include diagnostic information, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, or other mental health conditions.
About me
My name is Mónica Estrada, and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Richmond, VA, with over 20 years of experience specializing in trauma and abuse recovery. Throughout my career, I have been committed to supporting immigrant and refugee communities. As a bilingual immigrant myself, I have a profound understanding of the unique challenges these populations encounter. I also recognize the crucial role that comprehensive and culturally attuned immigration psychological evaluations play in the success of your case.
The immigration process can be overwhelming, but having the right support makes all the difference. I specialize in providing thorough immigration evaluations that clearly highlight your unique situation. Let me guide you with the expertise you need to confidently move forward with your immigration process.
I can conduct assessments for the following immigration topics:
Extreme And Exceptional Hardship
Applying for a hardship waiver is crucial when separating from a relative in the United States could cause significant harm. The immigration evaluation thoroughly assesses the potential extreme and exceptional hardships you may face, providing essential documentation to strengthen your waiver application.
Asylum
During the evaluation, we’ll discuss the events that led you to flee your country. I understand how difficult it can be to revisit these experiences, but rest assured, everything you share is strictly confidential. You control the pace of the conversation and are never required to answer questions you are uncomfortable with. My role is to document your story and assess the emotional and psychological impact of your experiences. With extensive experience in working with trauma survivors, my priority is ensuring you feel safe, understood, and supported. You’ll never need to explain or justify your feelings—I am here to listen without judgment and to help you tell your story in a way that feels right for you.
Spousal Abuse, or VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)
Undocumented immigrants experiencing abuse from a U.S. citizen spouse can seek legal protection through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). My evaluation aims to document the mental, emotional, or physical abuse you’ve endured, providing critical evidence to support your petition for legal status independent of your abusive spouse.
U-Visa
Designed for victims of crimes that occurred within the United States, the U-Visa offers protection to those who have experienced domestic violence, physical or sexual exploitation, kidnapping, trafficking, rape, or serious misdemeanors. My immigration evaluation focuses on documenting the trauma and hardships endured, reinforcing your eligibility for the U-Visa.
T-Visa
Similar to the U-Visa, the T-Visa is designed for individuals who have been trafficked into the United States. My immigration evaluation is customized to document the specifics of your trafficking experience, offering a detailed and thorough account to strengthen your T-Visa application.