This type of evaluation assesses difficulties that an American citizen relative would undergo if the immediate family member were to be deported or refused entry/reentry to the United States. The evaluation for immigration process can be conducted in English or in Portuguese (with the exception of the final report that must be in English to be accepted by the immigration courts). Dr. Lake's report is not a simple letter; it is a complex statement related to important factors that are taken into account by The U.S. Department of Homeland Security. 

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Immigration evaluations for extreme hardship consist of interviews and completion of standardized emotional and personality assessments. This information is then integrated in order to support a hardship petition.  Dr. Lake will also diagnose* any mental disorder (if applicable) using the DSM-5 criteria and include the diagnosis in the supporting documentation.

 

This entire process takes anywhere from 8-10 hours to complete and about 2-3 weeks for a written report to be drafted. Expedited report is also available for an additional charge. The total fee for the evaluation is of $600-$1200. When you set the appointment, you are expected to pay half of the total amount (50%). This fee is non-refundable as it will secure your interview time with Dr. Lake. The other half (50%) is paid before the written report is completed. 

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* Please note that a diagnosis of a mental disorder is not needed or required.