Q: Where are you legally allowed to see clients?
A: Due to the location of my practice license (LMFT), I am legally authorized to see clients for virtual psychological evaluations across the entire state of California. This allows me to serve attorneys and clients seamlessly throughout the state (I hope to expand services to other states in the future).
Q: Are your services available virtually, or does the client need to travel?
A: All of my services, including interviews and report preparation, are conducted 100% virtually. There is no need for the client to travel to an office location, which eliminates logistical and geographical burdens for both the client and the legal team.
Q: Do you offer pro bono services or charge on a sliding scale?
A: No, my practice is currently unable to accept pro bono cases or offer a sliding scale. This is necessary for me to maintain a sustainable practice. My hope is to accept pro bono work in the future.
Note: I am currently offering a reduced fee special off the standard rate. Details regarding fees and the current special are available on the Fees and Process section of the main webpage.
Q: Are you bilingual and how are language barriers handled?
A: I am not bilingual and conduct all evaluations in English. To ensure the highest level of accuracy and clinical reliability, I work exclusively with qualified, professional language interpreters whom I coordinate directly.
Scheduling: The meeting time and logistics are coordinated collaboratively between myself, the client, and the interpreter.
Fee Structure: Please note that the interpreter's fee is separate from my evaluation fee and goes to the interpreter directly.
Q: What is the current timeline for scheduling an evaluation?
A: My schedule fluctuates based on the complexity and volume of current cases. While I strive to accommodate all requests, I recommend submitting your New Client Referral Request via the contact form on the Home page. I prioritize requests based on feasibility and submission date.
Note: Priority is only given to cases where the client has requested and paid for the Expedited Service and paid the rush fee. Otherwise, cases are scheduled in the order they are received
Q: How long does it typically take to receive the final report?
A: Report turnaround time is typically 8-10 business days after the final interview and receipt of all necessary supporting documentation. I schedule a brief consultation with you (the attorney) to discuss case dynamics and report needs. I also request the client's Declaration to review beforehand and confirm the feasibility of any deadlines, ensuring the case aligns with my expertise and availability.
Note: Expedited services are available for reports requested to be completed within 5 business days. The 5-business-day period is measured from the initial intake request (call or email). This service requires an additional fee.
Q: How does your evaluation approach address the severity of hardship?
A: My evaluations use a life-span systemic approach. While the current case is the focus, I examine cumulative patterns of hardship across the client's life, such as childhood experiences or previous unrelated stressors. This is because current immigration stress is often amplified by these prior experiences. By identifying these patterns, I can clinically provide explanation for why the current hardship is uniquely extreme for this individual.
Q: Do you include diagnoses for psychological disorders in the report?
A: Yes, the report includes diagnoses (based on the DSM-5-TR /ICD-10) when clinically appropriate and supported by the collected data and reported symptoms. However, if a client does not meet diagnostic criteria for a diagnosis, their report will explain why. The primary focus is on the functional impact of mental health and social conditions, and systemic hardship, not diagnostic designation alone. This approach ensures the report provides a comprehensive explanation of the client's condition in regard to their current immigration case.
Q: How do you maintain confidentiality when the report is submitted to the court?
A: Confidentiality in this type of evaluation is limited from the outset. The client is fully informed that the entire report, including sensitive details, will be shared with the referring attorney and ultimately submitted to the court or USCIS. I obtain written consent from the client confirming they understand and agree to this limitation before the interviews begins.
Q: Do you provide therapeutic follow-up or referrals?
A: No, my services are strictly limited to evaluative assessment and report writing; I do not enter into a therapeutic relationship with the client. However, I am available for follow-up consultation with the attorney or client to expand on report findings or discuss new information. Additionally, I provide therapeutic referral options to all clients.