By Cheryl Chen, LMHC-D, LPCColumbia University graduateLast updated August 31, 2026
Quick answer
The process usually includes an initial consultation, 1 or 2 video meetings, up to about 2 hours in total depending on the case, document review, clinical assessment tools when appropriate, and a written report. Clients can ask questions and take breaks during the interview.
Official sources
You were told you need a psychological evaluation for your immigration case. Nobody explained what happens in it. This article walks through the process from the first call to the finished report.
It starts with a short call, email, or video chat about your case type, your timeline, and any deadline from your attorney. You can ask me questions and decide if I am the right fit.
You do not need to send legal documents at this stage. I need the outline of your case, not your whole file. If your attorney wants to send a summary, that helps, but it is not required.
The interview is the main part of the evaluation. You meet with me by secure video. It usually takes about two hours. There is a structure, but it is not rigid, and it is not an interrogation.
I ask about your background and your family history. Next come questions about what happened in your case. Then I ask how you are doing now and how this situation has changed daily life for you and the people close to you.
You do not need to perform or present yourself a certain way. Be honest. I know how to draw out the details that matter. You do not need to plan what to say.
Some things are hard to put into words. When I know your language and your culture, I can help you say what is hard to say directly.
Exact questions vary by case type, but you can generally expect questions about:
Many people cry during the interview. Others feel anxious, numb, or worn out by the end. You are going over hard things in detail, and I expect that. Emotion does not make your account less believable.
If you need to pause, say so. I will wait.
The part of your story that is hardest to talk about is often the part that matters most in the report. I will make space for it at your pace.
After the interview, I write the report. It is usually 10 to 15 pages. The report is usually ready 5 business days after I have everything I need. It covers how the evaluation was done, your history, what I found, and my professional opinion on the question your case asks.
You get a copy of the report. Your attorney gets a copy to file with the case. If you have questions about it, I am available to talk it through.
You do not need to memorize your story or rehearse answers. Find a private, quiet place where you can speak freely. Keep a rough timeline of events in your head. Be ready to answer honestly, even when it is hard.
If the interview will not be in your first language, or you need an interpreter, tell me before your appointment. Then I can plan the session around that.
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Immigration Psychological Evaluations
Get in touch
I do evaluations by video where I am allowed to serve your location. English, Mandarin, and Taiwanese directly. A professional interpreter for most other languages.
cheryl@everbloommentalhealth.com · 551-261-2531
I currently work with clients in New York, New Jersey, Texas, Washington, Colorado, Florida, South Carolina, Arizona, Vermont and Idaho.