Partnering for Immigration Evaluations

Our partnership with PsychEvalCoach allows us to offer a specialized training program to equip mental health professionals with the skills needed to conduct comprehensive immigration evaluations.

The program consists of:

  • A 12-hour training with expert instructors

  • Shadowing an evaluation with a senior evaluator

  • Conducting 3 pro-bono evaluations under direct supervision

  • Attending at least 6 weekly consultation groups for ongoing support and guidance

The training program costs $997. Upon successful completion and approval by your supervisors and training director, you can be invited to join our team of immigration evaluators and start receiving direct referrals from IPP.

This comprehensive program is split into two 6-hour parts

PART 1

Evaluating Hardship for Waivers of Inadmissibility and Cancelation of Removal Proceedings:

  • The role of the mental health professional in an immigration case and the basic criteria necessary to help the adjudicator make an informed decision

  • Ethical and cultural considerations involved in conducting immigration assessments

  • Evidence-based techniques for assessing the impact of a forced separation from a loved one on both adults and children ages 4-17

  • Tests and psychological measures to employ in these assessments

  • Communicating your findings in a professionally written report

  • Tips for streamlining the report-writing process

  • Strategies for marketing your services to immigration attorneys

PART 2

Assessing the Psychological Impact of Trauma on Asylum Seekers and Victims of Domestic Violence, Violent Crimes, and Human Trafficking

  • Legal background of the different forms of protection-related immigration relief for victims of torture and persecution, domestic violence, criminal activity, and human trafficking

  • Gathering thorough, relevant information while maintaining sensitivity and discretion working with foreign nationals who were victims of trauma - adults and children

  • Tests and psychological measures to employ in these assessments

  • Outlining critical sections of a written report, types of content for inclusion, and how to convey objectivity and neutrality

  • Avoiding potential pitfalls

  • Self-care tools for preventing secondary trauma and vicarious trauma

  • Tips for testifying in court and the role of the mental health professional as an expert witness

Next Training Dates:

PART 1: Friday, December 6, 2024

PART 2: Friday, January 10, 2024

9 am - 3:30 pm Pacific Time

In addition, the training includes:

  • 12 Continuing Education units* sponsored by the San Diego Psychological Association**

  • Sample reports for all the different types of cases

  • Sample consent forms in English and Spanish

  • Helpful templates, including intake guides, client forms, and symptoms checklists

  • All presentation slides

  • Unlimited viewing of the recorded training

FAQs About our Training Program

What if I can’t attend the live training?

While we recommend attending the live training, we understand that scheduling conflicts may arise. If you can't make it, you'll have access to the recordings, materials, and the opportunity to ask questions during your individual supervision. Please note that CEUs will only be awarded for attending the live sessions.

What does the pro-bono evaluation process involve?

After completing the 12-hour training and shadowing a senior evaluator, you'll be assigned a client to evaluate. You'll conduct the evaluation, write the report, and receive guidance from a clinical supervisor. This process will be repeated twice more to gain practical experience. These evaluations are pro-bono, meaning there's no payment involved for either the client or the evaluator.

When are the weekly consultation groups?

The consultation groups are usually held on Tuesdays from 12 PM to 1 PM Pacific Time. If you can't attend in person (in San Diego), you can join remotely.

Will I automatically join the IPP team of providers upon completion of the program?

Completing the training program does not automatically qualify you to join the IPP team. Only trainees who have demonstrated proficiency and are recommended by their supervisors and the Director of Learning and Development will be considered for membership.

Can I accept referrals from individuals outside of the IPP network?

Yes, you can absolutely get your own referrals to conduct immigration evaluations. You have the flexibility to market your services and build your own client base. This allows you to expand your practice and reach a wider range of individuals seeking these evaluations.

What if I already have training and experience conducting immigration evaluations? Can I still join the IPP team?

Absolutely! Please reach out to us to discuss your experience and how you can contribute to our team.

If you have any other questions or need more information, please contact us

*Continuing education units are only offered when you attend the training LIVE

**The San Diego Psychological Association (SDPA) is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. SDPA maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Please note: In California, APA-approved CEs are valid for licensed psychologists, licensed school psychologists, LCSW, LMFT, LEP & LPCC licensees.