Asylum: Documentation of persecution, credible fear, and trauma that meets legal criteria for refugee status or removal defense.
VAWA (Violence Against Women Act): Assessment of domestic violence, child abuse, or sexual assault for immigrants seeking protection under VAWA.
U Visa: Evaluation of victims of crime (physical, emotional, or sexual violence) who have assisted law enforcement, focusing on trauma impact, recovery, and hardship.
T Visa: Specialized evaluation for survivors of human trafficking, addressing forced labor, sexual exploitation, trauma, and restoration needs.
Extreme Hardship Waivers: Assessment of medical, emotional, financial, and relational hardship for family-based petitions; can include children, parents, or spouses affected by potential removal.
Cancellation of Removal / Non-LPR Cancellation: Psychological evaluation supporting claims of hardship or risk if deported, tailored to respondent/family experience.
1) Referral & Intake:
Attorney or client contacts Embodied Justice Advisory for evaluation. Secure intake form collects demographic, case, and history details. All interactions are confidential and HIPAA-compliant.
2) Clinical Interview:
In-depth, trauma-sensitive interview conducted by Nijeria Jones, LPC-S, either in person or via secure telehealth. Interpreters accommodated as needed. Interview includes:
Presenting concerns and immigration history
Past traumas (persecution, violence, abuse, exploitation)
Family structure, relationships, and roles
Current mental health symptoms and diagnosis
Functioning: home, work, school, community, self-care
Cultural and religious factors affecting experience
3) Assessment Tools Used:
Standardized measures of trauma, depression, anxiety, and PTSD (e.g., PCL-5, GAD-7, PHQ-9, etc.)
DSM-5 diagnostic criteria applied where indicated
Culturally customized questions for context-specific trauma and hardship
4) Documentation Review:
Attorney-provided affidavits, police reports, medical histories, and prior mental health assessments reviewed for supporting evidence.
5) Report Preparation:
Court-ready evaluation report with detailed findings, clear diagnostic impressions, and narrative sections cross-referenced to legal criteria.
Direct, compassionate language accessible for judges and officers who may not be clinicians.
Recommendations for ongoing therapy, medical support, or resources included when indicated.
6) Attorney & Client Communication:
Draft report shared for confirmation of facts.
Direct follow-up available for legal questions or supplemental needs.
Expert testimony or letter of clarification provided if required.
7) Delivery & Turnaround:
7ā15 business day standard turnaround (rush available).
Reports delivered securely (encrypted email or direct upload) to attorney or authorized party.
NASW-Approved Training: Certified by Georgia King, LCSW; adheres to the highest standards for legal documentation and trauma assessment.
Licensed and Experienced: Nijeria Jones, LPC-S, Board Registered Supervisor, has 8+ years of clinical, crisis, and trauma-focused experience with marginalized and immigrant populations.
Culturally Responsive: Sensitive, intersectional approach honoring diverse identities, languages, and backgrounds. Experience includes Black, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, and neurodiverse clients.
Compassionate, Confidential, Accessible: Trauma-informed communication, flexible scheduling (including evenings/weekends), telehealth or in-person options. Privacy and dignity at all times.
Collaborative: Regular feedback, Q&A, and ongoing partnership with attorneys and advocacy teams.
Who should request an evaluation? Immigration attorneys, accredited legal representatives, or individuals referred by social service providers.
Will my story be believed and handled with care? Absolutely. Our approach prioritizes accurate, respectful, and truthful documentation. Judges often cite the clarity and compassion of our reports.
Iām nervous about sharing trauma and mental health details. All interviews are conducted with sensitivity, empowerment, and choice. You may have a support person present.
How fast is a report available? Standard timelines are 7ā15 business days. Emergency/rush is available for affidavits and court deadlines.
Will you testify if needed? Yes, expert testimony and letters of clarification can be provided for hearings or interviews.
Investment: $800ā$1,200 per evaluation. Sliding scale available for nonprofits, asylees, and victims of trafficking/violence. Consult for quotes and payment plans.