10 steps · Interactive · Reassuring
What actually happens, step by step.
The full journey from first phone call to finished report, plus honest answers to the worries almost everyone has.
The ten steps, in order.
Tap any step to read what really happens there.
What's on your mind?
Choose any that fit. A plain answer appears for each — no judgment, ever.
Nothing selected — and if none of these apply, you are more ready than you think.
The next step
When you're ready to talk with a real person.
Najla Sallum, LCSW evaluates in English, Português, and Español at Aurora Counseling Center — in person in Florida or by secure telehealth.
Frequently asked questions
What happens during an immigration psychological evaluation?
A licensed clinician interviews you about your history and current well-being, may use standardized questionnaires when appropriate, reviews relevant records, and writes a formal report for your immigration matter. The steps above walk through each stage in plain language.
Is the evaluation a test I can pass or fail?
No. There is no passing or failing. The evaluator's role is to document your genuine experiences and their effects accurately and independently — not to judge you or decide your case.
Will I have to talk about traumatic events?
Relevant difficult experiences will come up, but a trauma-informed evaluator moves at your pace, explains why each question matters, and never forces detail you are not ready to share. Breaks are normal and expected.
Is what I say confidential?
The interview is confidential within the purpose of the evaluation. The written report goes to you and your attorney for your immigration matter — it is not shared beyond that purpose without your consent, except where the law requires.
Keep preparing
Questions to Ask
A curated question list — credentials, languages, fees, timing — you can trim to your situation and bring anywhere.
OpenLanguage Preparation
How language works in an evaluation — speaking your own language, interpreters, and documents written abroad.
OpenEvaluation Pathfinder
Six gentle questions that point you toward the evaluation category most worth discussing with your attorney or evaluator.
OpenThis tool is educational. Results help organize information — they are not legal advice, a diagnosis, or a prediction of any immigration outcome. A licensed immigration attorney can advise you about your legal matter, and the evaluator independently determines the appropriate clinical process.