T Visa Psychological Evaluations: Helping Survivors of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is a traumatic crime that leaves deep physical and psychological scars. Survivors who apply for a T Visa must show that they have experienced severe forms of trafficking and that removal from the U.S. would cause further hardship. A T Visa psychological evaluation assists in documenting the physical or mental abuse resulting from trafficking.
What Makes T Visa Evaluations Unique?
While similar to other immigration evaluations, T Visa evaluations focus on the specific trauma of trafficking. Clinicians assess symptoms such as PTSD, dissociation, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and chronic pain. Evaluators also explore issues related to trust, self‑esteem and safety, recognizing that survivors may fear retaliation or re‑victimization.
Components of the Evaluation
- Detailed trauma narrative: The clinician helps the survivor recount their trafficking experience in a safe, controlled environment.
- Psychological testing: Standardized assessments measure trauma‑related symptoms and cognitive functioning.
- Safety and support analysis: Evaluators assess the survivor’s current living situation, support networks and access to therapy, which helps illustrate why remaining in the U.S. is critical to healing.
- Medical and forensic records: Documentation from law enforcement, social services or healthcare providers can corroborate the survivor’s account.
Impact on T Visa Applications
The psychological report explains how trafficking has affected the survivor’s mental health and why removal would jeopardize their recovery. It also supports arguments that the applicant is cooperating with law enforcement (a T Visa requirement) and that continued presence in the U.S. is necessary for ongoing support and justice. For survivors, the evaluation can also be a therapeutic milestone, validating their experiences and highlighting resilience.
