Immigration Psychological Evaluations in Memphis, TN
Dr. Shaneika R. Smith, LPC-MHSP, specializes in psychological evaluations for:
VAWA Survivors
Victims of Crime (U Visa)
U.S. Citizen Families Facing Hardship (Waivers)
Asylum Seekers
We work collaboratively with attorneys and offer virtual appointments, payment plans, and interpreter coordination as needed. Read more detailed information below.
Mental Health Evaluations that Uplift and Protect
Immigration journeys are complex. At Sweetgrass, we approach each evaluation with deep respect for your story, your survival, and your future. Whether you're seeking safety from abuse, stability for your family, or protection from persecution, we’re here to help you document your truth. We are trained to provide confidential trauma-informed psychological evaluations to support USCIS applications.
The Process
Step 1: Request a Consult
A brief call with you and/or your attorney to clarify case type, deadlines, and needs.
Step 2: Clinical Interviews
1–2 sessions with Dr. Smith conducted virtually or in person, using trauma-informed and culturally respectful methods (Duration 1hr - 1hr 30 mins)
Step 3: Written Report
A detailed, court-ready report delivered within your requested timeline (standard, expedited, or rush)
Our Focus:
At Sweetgrass, we believe that every person seeking relief through immigration deserves to be seen not only for their pain—but for their power. Our evaluations are rooted in a strengths-based perspective that highlights the applicant’s resilience, cultural values, and capacity to heal. We don’t just document symptoms—we uplift stories of survival, caregiving, responsibility, and growth.
We approach each evaluation with cultural humility and an understanding that every client carries unique lived experiences shaped by race, identity, displacement, and systemic oppression. Rather than take a clinical detachment, we prioritize relational warmth and safety throughout the assessment process. We take care to honor the emotional labor it takes to share your truth.
We know that immigration cases move on legal timelines, not always therapeutic ones. That’s why we offer fast, reliable turnaround—standard delivery within 2–3 weeks, with expedited (5–7 days) and rush (48–72 hours) options available. Our process is clear, collaborative, and designed to meet the needs of both clients and attorneys.
Each report is thoughtfully crafted to meet the highest standards of clarity, professionalism, and legal relevance. We provide in-depth psychological narratives that tie clinical findings to legal criteria—supported by standardized assessments, trauma-informed interviewing, and a deep understanding of immigration policy expectations. Your report is not just paperwork—it’s your voice, supported by evidence and elevated through expert care.
What will an immigration evaluation do for my case?
How do I know if I need an immigration evaluation?
If you’ve been asked by your immigration attorney to provide documentation of your mental or emotional health—or if your case involves trauma, abuse, hardship, or fear of returning to your country—you may benefit from an immigration evaluation. These evaluations are often helpful (and sometimes critical) for cases involving VAWA, U Visas, Hardship Waivers, and Asylum.
Not sure if you qualify or if it’s necessary? We offer a free 15-minute phone or video consultation to help you explore whether an evaluation would support your case. There’s no pressure—just clear information so you can make an informed decision.
What will an immigration evaluation do for my case?
An immigration evaluation provides a professional mental health assessment that documents your emotional experiences in a way that supports your legal argument. It can help demonstrate how abuse, trauma, family separation, or fear of persecution has impacted your wellbeing—or the wellbeing of your U.S. citizen loved one. These reports give your attorney valuable evidence to present in court or to USCIS.
In many cases, a well-written psychological evaluation can humanize your story, increase the chances of approval, and strengthen your case by aligning clinical insight with legal standards. At Sweetgrass, our reports are detailed, culturally attuned, and tailored to the specific needs of your petition.
Who I Work With
ATTORNEYS
At Sweetgrass, we collaborate closely with immigration attorneys to ensure each evaluation aligns with the legal goals of the case. From the initial consultation to final report delivery, we maintain open communication, honor deadlines, and tailor each assessment to address the specific evidentiary needs of the petition. Whether your client needs documentation of trauma, hardship, or psychological symptoms, we provide court-ready, clinically sound evaluations that integrate seamlessly into your case strategy.
IMMIGRATION CLIENTS
I work with immigration clients in a way that is compassionate, collaborative, and trauma-informed. From our first conversation, my goal is to create a safe and respectful space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. Evaluations typically involve one or two sessions—held virtually or in person—where we talk about your experiences, your strengths, and the emotional impact of what you've been through. I take care to move at your pace, explain the process clearly, and ensure that your story is documented with dignity and depth. My role is to translate your lived experiences into a professional report that supports your legal journey without retraumatizing you along the way.
What We Do
We provide assessments for the following types of applications:
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For U.S. citizen or LPR family members who would suffer extreme hardship if their loved one were denied residency. We assess the emotional, medical, financial, educational, or caregiving-related toll on the qualifying relative.
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For individuals fleeing persecution due to race, religion, political beliefs, gender identity, or social group. These evaluations connect mental health symptoms to the trauma and persecution endured and, when applicable, explain missed filing deadlines.
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For survivors of qualifying crimes who have cooperated with law enforcement. These evaluations document trauma symptoms (such as PTSD, depression, or anxiety) and help establish ongoing harm.
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For individuals who have experienced abuse by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or child. We assess the emotional and psychological impact of the abuse and how it affects your daily functioning and sense of safety.
Fees for Service
Immigration Psychological Evaluations
Cost: $1,200 (Ask about our Spring/Summer 2025 special for $200 off)
Report Completion: 2 - 3 weeks
Expedited Immigration Psychological Evaluations
Cost: $1,500
Report Completion: 5 - 7 days
Rush Immigration Psychological Evaluations
Cost: $1,800
Report Completion: 48 - 72 Hours
FAQs
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Yes, absolutely. We welcome clients from all language backgrounds. If you prefer to speak in a language other than English, we will coordinate a professional interpreter to assist during your evaluation sessions. This ensures that you feel comfortable, understood, and able to fully express your experiences. Interpreter services are included in the cost of your evaluation—you won’t need to bring your own or pay anything extra. We’re committed to making this process accessible, respectful, and supportive for everyone.
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Immigration evaluations typically take between 1 to 2 sessions, depending on the type of case and your personal history. Each session lasts about 60–90 minutes and can be done virtually or in person. After your sessions are complete, your written report will be delivered within your selected timeframe: standard (2–3 weeks), expedited (5–7 days), or rush (48–72 hours). We also offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you plan ahead.
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Yes! While your attorney handles the legal side of your case, I provide the clinical documentation that can strengthen it. Immigration evaluations offer professional insight into how your mental health has been affected by your experiences—and this information can be used to support your petition. I often collaborate directly with attorneys to make sure my report aligns with your case strategy and includes all the necessary elements for USCIS or immigration court.
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An immigration evaluation doesn't guarantee an approval—but it can significantly strengthen your case. These reports provide clear, credible evidence that supports the emotional and psychological impact of your circumstances. A well-written evaluation can make your story more compelling, humanize your experience in the eyes of decision-makers, and give your attorney the tools they need to advocate more effectively on your behalf.
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Getting started is easy. Just reach out to schedule your free 15-minute consultation. During that call, we’ll briefly discuss your case type, timeline, and answer any questions you have. If you decide to move forward, we’ll schedule your evaluation sessions, go over the paperwork, and begin the process. To schedule your consultation click the ‘Schedule Your Consultation’ button below.—we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.