YHS
EVALUATIONS
Immigration & Mental Health Evaluations
BilingualServices
Evaluations conducted in English or Spanish. Your story deserves to be told in the language that feels most natural to you.
Culturally Grounded
I understand the experiences of immigrant families because I come from one. You won't have to explain the basics of your culture before we
even start.
Clinically Thorough
Reports are detailed, evidence-based, and written to meet the standards attorneys and judges expect. I include clinical observations, diagnostic impressions, and clear recommendations.
ABOUT THIS SERVICE
What is an immigration evaluation?
An immigration evaluation is a clinical assessment conducted by a licensed mental health professional. It documents the psychological impact of your experiences and provides a detailed report that supports your immigration case.
These evaluations are often requested by attorneys for cases involving asylum, VAWA (Violence Against Women Act), U-Visa, T-Visa, cancellation of removal, and extreme hardship waivers.
The goal is not to diagnose you. The goal is to make sure your story is heard, understood, and documented in a way that supports your case.
TYPES OF CASES
Cases I Support.
VAWA (I-360)
For individuals who have experienced abuse by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or family member.
T Visa
For survivors of human trafficking seeking legal protection and stability.
Asylum (I-589)
For individuals who have fled violence, persecution, or danger in their home country and are seeking protection in the U.S.
Extreme Hardship Waiver (I-601 / I-601A)
For cases where deportation or denial of admission would cause extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident family member.
U Visa (I-918)
For victims of qualifying crimes in the United States who have cooperated with law enforcement.
Cancellation of Removal (EOIR-42B)
For individuals facing removal who can demonstrate the psychological and emotional impact of separation on their families.
WHO THIS IS FOR
This May Be Right
for You If:
-
Your immigration attorney has recommended a psychological evaluation
-
You are applying for asylum, a U-Visa, T-Visa, or VAWA protections
-
Your case involves an extreme hardship waiver
-
You or a family member is facing cancellation of removal
-
You need a professional to document the emotional and psychological impact of your experience
You don't need to have a mental health diagnosis. You just need someone who understands what you've been through and can communicate it clearly.
YOUR EVALUATOR
Why Work With Me
I'm Vivian Acosta Cedeno, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in behavioral health. I'm bilingual in English and Spanish, and I'm a first-generation Latina.
I conduct every evaluation with the same care I bring to my therapy practice. That means you won't feel rushed, judged, or reduced to a case number. I take the time to understand your story, your family, and what you've been carrying.
My reports are thorough, clinically sound, and written to support your legal team's strategy. I work directly with attorneys to make sure the evaluation addresses exactly what your case requires.
WHAT TO EXPECT
How It Works
01
Initial Consultation:
We start with a brief call (you or your attorney) to discuss your case, determine if an evaluation is appropriate, and answer any questions. There is no cost for this call.
02
The Evaluation:
We meet for 1-3 sessions depending on the complexity of your case. Sessions are conducted virtually or in person. I'll ask about your history, your experiences, and the emotional impact of what you've been through. This is a conversation, not an interrogation.
03
The Report:
I prepare a comprehensive written report documenting my clinical findings, diagnostic impressions, and recommendations. Reports are typically completed within 7-10 business days and sent directly to your attorney.
04
Attorney Coordination:
I'm available to communicate with your legal team throughout the process and can provide supplemental information or testimony if needed.
THE REPORT
What Your Report Will Include
→ A summary of your personal and family history
→ Documentation of the psychological impact of your experiences
→ Clinical observations from our sessions
→ Diagnostic impressions where applicable
→ A professional assessment of hardship, trauma, or risk factors relevant to your case
→ Clear recommendations that support your legal argument
FOR LEGAL PROFESSIONALS
For Immigration Attorneys
I work closely with legal teams to make sure evaluations align with case strategy. If you're an attorney looking for a bilingual, licensed clinician to conduct immigration evaluations for your clients, I'd welcome the opportunity to connect.
I understand the timelines and pressures of immigration cases. I'm responsive, thorough, and committed to producing reports that hold up under scrutiny.
Common
Questions
REQUEST A CONSULTATION
A free 15-minute call to ask questions, share what's on your mind, and find out if we're a good fit.
*If you are in crisis text or call 988. For emergencies contact 911.