Asylum
In asylum cases, an individual has been mistreated and abused in their home country due to political beliefs, religious affiliation, ethnic identity, gender, or violence in the family of origin. They seek asylum or safety from their country of origin within the U.S. Many of these individuals have experienced a great deal of trauma and emotional upheaval, which can have lasting psychological implications.
A psychological evaluation will establish the mental health consequences of prior abuse or persecution. It will also help determine how their experiences in their home country psychologically impacted them and explain some of their symptoms now and in the future.
Case Example:
- Jose M (pseudonym) fled gang persecution in his home country of Honduras. He had been attacked and beaten several times throughout childhood and adolescence because he refused to join the gang. One night, gang members shot his cousin. Jose fled Honduras and made his way to the U.S. Based on his experiences, he believes that if he returns to Honduras, he or his family will be killed.
English 
Spanish