The Emerging Role of Mental Health Providers in the Immigration Field

Overview
Immigration has a significant impact on many aspects of life in the United States. According to an analysis by the Center for Immigration Studies, the nation's immigrant population (documented and undocumented) hit a record high of 44.7 million in 2018, and immigrants comprise 14 percent of the nation’s total population. With such high numbers, it is not uncommon for a mental health professional to receive a request to assist an individual involved in some type of immigration proceeding. This presentation will give a general overview of the different immigration statuses foreign nationals can have in the United States and the various means via which they can attain lawful presence. The main focus will be on how mental health providers can assist this often disempowered population, with particular emphasis on ethical and cultural considerations. Recorded on March 15, 2022.
Learning objectives
- List five different immigration statuses
- Describe six different types of humanitarian relief for undocumented immigrants
- Explain how a mental health professional can be helpful in immigration proceedings
- Demonstrate culturally sensitive approaches to working with foreign nationals