Hardship Waiver Psychological Evaluation
What is a hardship waiver psychological evaluation?
A psychological evaluation for a hardship waiver (I-601 or I-601A) is a formal mental health assessment used to support immigration petitions where a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident would suffer extreme hardship if their relative is denied entry or removed from the U.S.
These evaluations are conducted by licensed mental health professionals and are often submitted with immigration applications to strengthen the evidence of emotional, psychological, financial, and medical hardship.
Why does USCIS require this kind of evaluation?
USCIS wants to see documented evidence that the U.S. citizen or green card holder would experience “extreme hardship” — beyond the normal emotional distress of being separated from a loved one.
A licensed therapist or psychologist can provide clinical insight into the depth of suffering a qualifying relative would face.
Who needs the evaluation — the applicant or their relative?
The psychological evaluation is typically conducted with the qualifying relative — the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident — not the immigrant seeking the waiver.
That relative is often:
- spouse
- A parent
- A child (if over a certain age)
What does the evaluation include?
Our evaluations typically cover:
- Clinical interview with the qualifying relative
- Assessment of emotional, psychological, and physical health
- Impact of separation or relocation
- Review of medical, academic, and legal records (if applicable)
- Diagnosis (if warranted)
- Professional opinion on the likelihood and severity of hardship
The final report is compliant with USCIS standards and usually ready within 7 busines days. We can have one ready within 48-hours for an added fee.
How much does a hardship waiver evaluation cost?
An evaluation conducted in English or with a Spanish-speaking therapist costs $850. If you need support for a language other than Spanish or a Spanish-speaking therapist is unavailable then we will provide an interpreter. The cost for a session with interpretation is $1,000. Reports are delivered within 7 business days; however, we offer expedited report delivery for an added fee of $300.
Can you do the evaluation online?
Yes! We offer secure telehealth evaluations across Texas and other eligible states. All sessions are HIPAA-compliant, private, and effective — just like in-person assessments.
How do I schedule an evaluation?
You can request an appointment through our Contact Us form or call us directly at (281) 858-3001. We'll guide you through the process and answer any questions.
Conclusion
A psychological evaluation can play a critical role in the success of your I-601 or I-601A hardship waiver. It gives USCIS professional evidence that your family would suffer beyond what’s typical if you're denied relief.
If you're facing immigration challenges and need support, we’re here to help.
Motivations Counseling provides compassionate, trauma-informed psychological evaluations for immigration cases across Texas. Our licensed therapists specialize in detailed, USCIS-compliant reports for a wide range of petitions, including:
- VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)
- U-Visa & T-Visa
- I-601/I-601A Hardship Waivers
- Cancellation of Removal
- Adjustment of Status and other humanitarian relief
We offer secure telehealth appointments, fast turnaround times, and bilingual services to ensure every client receives the support and documentation they need. While we do not conduct asylum evaluations, we are committed to delivering professional, evidence-based reports for attorneys and families navigating the immigration process.
Whether you're working with an attorney or seeking help on your own, we're here to help you move forward with strength and clarity.
Call today to schedule an appointment or a free 10-minute consultation.
