Exploring the Intersection of Immigration Law and Psychology: A Salon Series

Abstract: Last year, there were 1.1 million new asylum claims globally, with the United States receiving a significant proportion. Survivors of human rights violations seeking asylum often require robust documentation to support their cases, involving both legal and mental health assessments. However, in Colorado, there's a noticeable gap in cross-discipline training and expert consultation opportunities. This project aimed to address this gap by developing and implementing a multi-disciplinary workshop for attorneys and mental health professionals, culminating in the establishment of a provider collective to offer consultation services and training workshops. The project also sought to evaluate the effectiveness of the training through pre- and post-surveys, as well as gathering feedback to inform the structure of a provider consultation network. 

Introduction: In collaboration with the Center for Immigration Policy and Research’s Semillas Grant Program, a 3-part Salon Series was organized to explore the intersection of immigration law and psychology. The series comprised three sessions held quarterly at the Law School throughout 2023. These salons aimed to foster dialogue, share insights, and enhance collaboration between legal and mental health professionals within the immigration context. 

Salon Series Overview: The series commenced with a focus on Culturally Alert Psychological Evaluations for Immigration Court, providing attendees with essential tools to navigate mental health assessments tailored for immigration purposes. The second installment delved into Utilizing Forensic Psychological Assessment Reports in Immigration Court, offering insights from immigration attorney Conor Gleason, Esq. from the Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network (RMIAN). Participants engaged in practical exercises and discussions to deepen their understanding. The series culminated in a session titled Exploring Lived Experiences in the US Immigration Court System, which provided a platform for individuals directly impacted by immigration proceedings to share their stories and insights led by Liz Jordan and Gwen Mitchell, the grant co-recipients. 

Outcomes: Post-surveys conducted after each session indicated a significant improvement in participants' knowledge and skills related to conducting immigration evaluations. Feedback from attendees highlighted the value of interdisciplinary collaboration and the practical insights gained from expert speakers. Participants expressed a desire for continued dialogue and training opportunities to further enhance their capacity to navigate the complex intersection of immigration law and psychology.  The salons facilitated meaningful conversations and knowledge sharing among legal and mental health professionals. Pre- and post-surveys indicated a significant improvement in participants' knowledge and skills related to conducting immigration evaluations. Feedback from attendees highlighted the value of interdisciplinary collaboration and the need for continued dialogue and training opportunities. 

Conclusion: The Salon Series successfully addressed the intersectional challenges faced by professionals in immigration court proceedings. By creating a space for collaboration and knowledge exchange, the series contributed to enhancing the capacity of practitioners to effectively navigate the complex landscape of immigration law and psychology. Moving forward, efforts will continue to promote interdisciplinary cooperation and provide ongoing support and training for professionals in this critical field. The Salon Series served as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and knowledge exchange among legal and mental health professionals. By addressing the intersectional challenges inherent in immigration court proceedings, the series contributed to the professional development of practitioners in this critical field. Moving forward, efforts will focus on sustaining the momentum generated by the series, fostering ongoing collaboration, and providing continued support and training opportunities for professionals. 

Elizabeth Jordan is the Visiting Assistant Professor and Director of the Immigration Law and Policy Clinic at the University of Denver's Sturm College of Law.

Gwen Mitchell, PsyD, is an associate professor and co-director of the MAIDP Program at the University of Denver's Graduate School of Professional Psychology.