Counseling Solutions has been providing mental health evaluations for immigration cases since 2002.

We provide evaluations of hardship for waiver and cancellation of removal cases, and psychological evaluations in support of VAWA petitions, U Visa, and political asylum cases. All of our staff are trained and skilled in writing detailed psychological reports that incorporate strong clinical material with an understanding of the legal requirements of the cases in which our consultation is sought. We work closely with the referring attorney to ensure quality work and attorney satisfaction.

A partial list of law firms from whom we regularly receive referrals for evaluations includes:

Noelle McWard, LCSW has been invited to speak on the following panels as a mental health expert for immigration law:

  • 2007 American Immigration Lawyers Association Midwest Meeting on the topic "The Use of Mental Health Expert Testimony in Immigration Law"

  • 2009 Chicago Bar Association seminar titled "The Intersection of Domestic Violence, Immigration and Mental Health Issues".

  • 2012 the Archdiocese of Chicago’s Office for Immigrant Affairs and Immigration conference, titled "An Ethical Perspective on the Accompaniment of Immigrants: A Faith Response; Conference on Morality and Immigration."

  • 2019 American Immigration Lawyers Association Regional Midwest Conference on the panel, “Staying Sane in an Insane World.”

 Our Immigration Specialists

  • Noelle McWard, MA, LCSW

    FOUNDER + IMMIGRATION THERAPIST (she/her/hers)

    My goal is to form a genuine connection with each of my clients through warmth, attuned listening, direct feedback, and humor.

  • Angie Whitfield, LCSW, CCATP

    ​​IMMIGRATION THERAPIST (she/her/hers)

    We work together to build a strong therapeutic partnership that is holistic, strength-based, person-centered and considers cultural beliefs and backgrounds.

  • Beth McNamara, LCPC

    IMMIGRATION THERAPIST (she/her/hers)

    My approach to counseling is based on reflective and empathic dialogue to promote personal growth and deepen one’s understanding of self through personal storytelling.

  • Sandra Labastida, LCSW

    IMMIGRATION THERAPIST (she/her/hers)

    I strive to provide a safe, welcoming, and empathic environment for individuals seeking Immigration evaluations.

  • Robin Brown, LCSW

    IMMIGRATION THERAPIST (she/her/hers)

    I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental perspective on what has shaped you and how you want your life to change in the future.