“Thank you so much for your time. Everything was very informative. Growing up and into adulthood you get used to making yourself smaller for other people, I feel so much better knowing that I’m not “dramatic or extra”. How I feel is real. ” – S.C. after an evaluation.

I know I don’t post very frequently on my evaluation website. My podcast publishes on my other website (drlizhypnosis.com) even when the topic is autism, ADHD, or neurodivergence. But I received the quote above recently and thought it’s important for people to know . . . Your feelings are real!

Autistic individuals as well as ADHD are often told that they’re “TOO. . . ”

• Too sensitive
• Too much
• Too dramatic
• Too talkative
• Too hyper
• Too introverted
• Too quiet

You pick but probably you’ve heard at least one of those. Often it’s used to invalidate your feelings, your actions, or even who you are. And it’s often followed by some type of advice. The “Shoulds.”

• You should just relax.
• You should get out more.
• You should sit down (and shut up).
• You should dial it back.

These feel just as awful as the first set. And are often insulting as well. As if you haven’t tried some things already.

Sometimes the person saying them is well-meaning and truly cares about you. Sometimes they’re saying it out of a place of helplessness – they don’t know what to do or how to help someone. But if it happens too much, it starts to feel judgmental or awkward or even un-safe to share your feelings or who you are.

Neurodivergent affirming psychotherapy is hopefully different. It doesn’t see you as broken or wrong. It affirms all of your differences as strengths. Even when we’re working with something you want to change and improve (the emphasis is that YOU decide that – not someone else), it’s working with your ND and hopefully not against it.

Most ND therapists truly enjoy ND clients and there is research that ND people speaking to other ND people literally understand each other better.

You’re not too much being who you are.

If you like, you can get a Free Hypnosis to reduce Fear and Anxiety.

Just a reminder that I do Adult Autism Evaluations and Neurodivergent Affirming Therapy for residents of Florida. Grab your Free Consultation with me to get the deets on working together (the how, the when, the where, and the how much).

Schedule Appointment

The post Your feelings are real appeared first on Evaluations With Dr. Liz.

The Maori word for Autism is “Takiwantaga,” which means “in their own time and space.”

Even though my last newsletter was about  Neurodivergent Love Languages, I often forget that it’s Autism Awareness Month when it rolls around because it seems to be Autism Awareness daily in our household since my youngest daughter is autistic.

It’s a factor in whether she goes to school that day (or stays home to prevent burnout or work on a project in a quiet environment).

How long I let my daughter sleep after school (as long as she likes).

What she eats & where she eats (not always the dinner table if I or someone else happens to be eating too loudly).

How many cat  / animal videos we show each other that day (a few vs many).

And frequent jokes about how autistic our dog is (highly).

In our family, her diagnosis helped increase understanding and how we interact with each other.

I don’t assume that everyone who is autistic needs to be formally diagnosed.  When adults and young adults are considering an evaluation, I always clarify what their goal is and whether it will help them or potentially harm them.

You can read more about that here (or listen in if you prefer audio).

For Eva, it also provided her with all kinds of supports needed at school and eventually college. It made her eligible for several very helpful government programs which will help pay for college, driving lessons (what???), and will help her find a job eventually.

If you have someone autistic and/or neurodivergent in your life, consider how you can best support them by asking what they need from you.

If you’re autistic and/or neurodivergent yourself, it’s always good to check-in with what you need. Because you are precious and wonderful and a miracle walking the earth.

Before you go, remember to get your Free Hypnosis to reduce Fear and Anxiety!

Just a reminder that I do Adult Autism Evaluations for residents of Florida. Grab your Free Consultation with me to get the deets on working together (the how, the when, the where, and the how much)!

Schedule Appointment

Peace and Health,

Dr. Liz

The post The Maori word for Autism appeared first on Evaluations With Dr. Liz.

The post Neurodivergent Love Languages appeared first on Evaluations With Dr. Liz.

Obtaining a T-Visa, which is designed for victims of human trafficking, may require an evaluation as part of the immigration waiver process.

The T-Visa evaluation typically aims to establish the eligibility of the victim and the need for the waiver based on the extent of the victim’s physical or emotional trauma.

Here’s how an evaluation can be beneficial for a T-Visa immigration waiver:

Establishing Eligibility

The T-Visa evaluation helps establish that the individual is indeed a victim of human trafficking as defined by the law. This involves documenting the circumstances of the trafficking, such as coercion, fraud, or force used against the victim. A thorough evaluation can provide essential evidence to support the victim’s claim of trafficking.

Assessing Trauma and Harm

An evaluation can assess the physical and emotional trauma suffered by the victim as a result of the trafficking experience. This can include documentation of injuries, psychological assessments, and interviews with mental health professionals to demonstrate the extent of the harm suffered.

Demonstrating Cooperation

One of the key requirements for a T-Visa is the victim’s willingness to cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of the traffickers. The evaluation can provide evidence that the victim has been cooperative and has assisted law enforcement agencies in their efforts to combat human trafficking.

Expert Evaluation

Expert opinions can carry significant weight in immigration proceedings. When you have an evaluation from a professional, such as a psychologist, social worker, or licensed mental health counselor it provides a credible assessment of the victim’s condition and the impact of trafficking on their life.

Legal Assistance

If you’re seeking a T-Visa, it’s crucial to work with experienced immigration attorneys or organizations specializing in human trafficking issues when pursuing a T-Visa. They can help coordinate the evaluation process, ensure all necessary documentation is prepared, and provide legal guidance throughout the application process.

Always check with your immigration lawyer whether a psychological evaluation is appropriate for your case. If so, it can serve as a powerful tool to present a compelling case for allowing an individual to remain in the United States.

Just a reminder that I do Immigration Evaluations for residents of Florida. Grab your Free Consultation with me to get the deets on working together (the how, the when, the where, and the how much).

Schedule Appointment

Peace and Health,
Dr. Liz

The post T Stands for Trafficking appeared first on Evaluations With Dr. Liz.

Most immigrants want nothing to do with the police, fearing deportation even if they are the one the crime is committed against.

But there are some cases when it could be to your benefit to report a crime when you’ve been a victim of one.

If you’re an immigrant to the United States and you’ve been the victim of a crime by a US citizen, you may be eligible to apply for a U-Visa.

The U-Visa is available to victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse.

That’s where an evaluation comes in. It can help provide evidence for your case that you did suffer mental or physical abuse and may be currently still suffering from the fallout of the crime committed.

Let’s look at an example

I did an evaluation for a person brought to the United States to work for a company. He thought everything was above board and trusted the owner of the company. The owner delayed and delayed on his paperwork and also mistreated him severely to the point of emotional abuse.

The owner threatened him constantly, had him work hours without pay, controlled where he lived and where he went, and put him down. That’s the short list of what they did. The complete list is very long!

To be eligible for a U-Visa

An individual must meet several requirements and go through an evaluation process to be eligible for a U-Visa.

1. You must be the victim of a qualifying crime that occurred in the United States or violated U.S. laws.
2. You must have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime.
3. You must possess information about the crime.
4. You must be willing to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the investigation and prosecution of the crime.

That last one is important! You must be willing to cooperate with law enforcement. Some people have reported the crime already. In that case, you would need a copy of the report for your lawyer.

Sometimes someone needs to report the crime. Consult with your lawyer about the best way to proceed with reporting it.

Filing a U-Visa Petition

To start the U-Visa evaluation process, you must file a U-Visa petition (Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can do this either on your own or through an authorized representative.

Law Enforcement Certification

Along with the U-Visa petition, you need to obtain a certification from a law enforcement agency that confirms your willingness to assist in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. This certification is known as the “U-Visa Law Enforcement Certification” (Form I-918, Supplement B).

Application Processing

After USCIS receives your U-Visa petition and supporting documents, they will review your case. If you meet the eligibility criteria and there are U-Visas available (the U-Visa cap is 10,000 per fiscal year), your petition may be approved.

Adjustment of Status

Once your U-Visa petition is approved, you can apply for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status (a green card). This step is optional, but it allows U-Visa holders to become permanent residents after meeting certain requirements.

Derivative U-Visas

Certain family members of U-Visa applicants may also be eligible for derivative U-Visas, including spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents.

Work Authorization

U-Visa recipients are eligible for work authorization (Employment Authorization Document or EAD) while their U-Visa application is pending.

It’s important to consult with an immigration attorney or an accredited representative to guide you through the U-Visa application process, as it can be complex, and they can help ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements and deadlines.

It’s essential to check the most current USCIS guidelines and forms.

Always check with your immigration lawyer whether a psychological evaluation is appropriate for your case. If so, it can serve as a powerful tool to present a compelling case for allowing an individual to remain in the United States.

Just a reminder that I do Immigration Evaluations for residents of Florida. Grab your Free Consultation with me to get the deets on working together (the how, the when, the where, and the how much).

Schedule Appointment

Peace and Health,
Dr. Liz

The post Have you been the victim of a crime by a US citizen? Take a look at the U-Visa appeared first on Evaluations With Dr. Liz.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) evaluation is a critical component of U.S. immigration policy aimed at protecting victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of abuse who are immigrants or non-citizen residents of the United States.

VAWA was originally enacted in 1994 and has been reauthorized several times since then.

One of the key provisions of VAWA is that it allows certain abused immigrants to self-petition for lawful permanent residency without relying on their abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouses or family members to sponsor them.

It does not apply to just people who identify as women. It applies to all domestic partnerships – queer relationships, heterosexual partners, trans partnerships. And it applies to relationships that are not romantic. For example, your brother is abusing you while you seek legal status. 

In essence, the United States believes that if you have been abused by a United States citizen or a lawful permanent resident, then you have the right to stay in the country without having to depend on them for your application for legal status. It allows you to seek a specific waiver for your immigration application.

Here are the reasons why a VAWA evaluation is important for immigration:

Protection for Victims

Many immigrants, particularly women, may find themselves in abusive relationships with U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouses or family members. These victims might fear reporting the abuse or leaving the abusive situation due to concerns about their immigration status. VAWA provides a mechanism for them to seek protection and immigration relief independently of their abuser.

Independence

VAWA allows victims of abuse to self-petition for immigration benefits. This means they don’t need the support or sponsorship of the abusive family member to obtain legal status. This is crucial because often, abusers may use the victim’s lack of immigration status as a tool to maintain control and power over them.

Confidentiality

VAWA provisions allow for the confidentiality of victim information during the immigration process. This is important because victims might fear retaliation from their abusers if their intent to gain legal status is known.

Verification

No one wants to be accused of lying for their personal benefit. The VAWA evaluation process involves demonstrating and documenting the authenticity of your abuse claims. The evaluator will use questionnaires and a formal assessment process to document and assess your abuse.

Family Access

The VAWA waiver if it’s granted allows qualifying family members of the abused individual to also apply for immigration benefits. This is an important provision as it can help protect any children who may be suffering due to the abusive environment.

Access to Services

Through VAWA, victims of abuse has the right to access certain social services, legal aid, and support networks that can aid in their recovery and rebuilding process.

Human Rights and Dignity

Providing immigration relief through VAWA aligns with the principles of human rights and human dignity. It acknowledges that no one should suffer abuse or stay in an abusive situation due to immigration status concerns. It also sends a strong message that abuse will not be tolerated in the United States.

In essence, the VAWA evaluation is designed to provide a path to immigration relief for victims of abuse. It recognizes the vulnerabilities faced by immigrants who are victims of violence and aims to empower them to seek safety and security without being tied to their abusers for immigration status. \

You’re able to leave your abuser without fear that you immigration and legal status is at risk in the United States.

Always check with your immigration lawyer whether a psychological evaluation is appropriate for your case. If so, it can serve as a powerful tool to present a compelling case for allowing an individual to remain in a country.

Just a reminder that I do Immigration Evaluations for residents of Florida. Grab your Free Consultation with me to get the deets on working together (the how, the when, the where, and the how much).

Schedule Appointment

Peace and Health,
Dr. Liz

The post How to seek help with your immigration application if you’re being abused – VAWA appeared first on Evaluations With Dr. Liz.

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In a move that has sparked heated debate and raised concerns about immigration policies, Florida recently passed a new bill that makes transporting illegal immigrants into the state illegal (not within the state if they are already here).

The legislation, known as law 1718, has ignited a wave of discussions about the consequences, implications, and ethics of such a measure.

Supporters argue that it is necessary for the rule of law, protecting national security, and maintaining border security.

Critics raise concerns about potential violations of human rights and the impact on immigrant communities.

Understanding Florida law 1718

Law 1718, also referred to as the “Transportation of Illegal Immigrants Act,” seeks to deter individuals from aiding or transporting undocumented immigrants within the state of Florida. Under this legislation, knowingly transporting an undocumented immigrant into the state can result in criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The law also grants law enforcement authorities greater powers to investigate and arrest individuals suspected of transporting undocumented immigrants.

Supporters’ Perspectives

Proponents of the law argue that it is essential for safeguarding the integrity of immigration laws and protecting national security. They contend that by making the transportation of undocumented immigrants illegal, the law acts as a deterrent to individuals who may be involved in human trafficking or other illegal activities.

Supporters also emphasize the economic burden placed on states with high numbers of undocumented immigrants and believe that by targeting those who assist in their transportation, the state can discourage further illegal immigration.

Critics’ Concerns

Critics of Law 1718 raise several key concerns. First and foremost, they argue that the law may violate the rights of immigrants, potentially leading to racial profiling and discrimination. They express concerns that law enforcement authorities may use the legislation as a pretext to target communities based on their ethnicity or perceived immigration status, exacerbating tensions and fostering an environment of fear.

Moreover, opponents argue that the law could have unintended consequences, making it difficult for undocumented immigrants to access essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment. By further marginalizing this vulnerable population, critics believe that the law could hinder integration efforts and increase the risk of exploitation.

A Broader Immigration Debate

The passage of Law 1718 is situated within a broader national debate on immigration policy. It reflects the ongoing tension between advocates of stringent immigration enforcement and those advocating for more inclusive and compassionate approaches.

The Florida law echoes similar measures enacted in other states, reflecting a growing trend towards state-level immigration regulation in the absence of comprehensive federal immigration reform.

The Future of Immigration Policy

Florida’s new law is likely to face legal challenges, with opponents arguing that it infringes upon federal jurisdiction over immigration matters. The outcome of these legal battles will significantly impact the implementation and longevity of the legislation.

The true impact of the legislation remains uncertain, and it will likely be subject to legal challenges in the coming months. Ultimately, this contentious law underscores the need for comprehensive immigration reform that balances the concerns of security and compassion in shaping the future of immigration policy in the United States.

It’s even more important now to do whatever you can to become legally documented.

There are multiple waivers that you can seek. Please see an attorney to see if there is one that’s appropriate for your situation.

Just a reminder that I do Evaluations for Immigrants seeking waivers for residents of Florida. Grab your Free Consultation with me to find out more details!

Schedule Appointment

Peace and Health,

Dr. Liz

The post Florida Law 1718 Criminalizes Transport of Undocumented Immigrants  appeared first on Evaluations With Dr. Liz.

People respond differently to various activities. Some feel pleasant or refreshed, and others feel calm and relaxed after an activity like this one. Some people notice little change the first time, but with practice, their control increases – as well as the benefits. If you practice this activity, your relaxation should increase, and your anxiety will decrease.

Step 1. Assume a comfortable position. You may lie down; loosen any tight clothing, take your glasses off if you’re wearing some, and close your eyes.

Step 2. Assume a passive attitude. Focus on yourself and on achieving relaxation in specific body muscles.

Step 3. Tense and relax each muscle group as follows:

• Forehead – Wrinkle your forehead, try to make your eyebrows touch your hairline for five seconds. Then relax those muscles.
• Eyes and nose – Close your eyes as tightly as you can for five seconds. Then relax those muscles.
• Lips, cheeks and jaw – Draw the centers of your mouth back and grimace for five seconds. Then relax those muscles. Feel the warmth and calmness in your face.
• Hands – Extend your arms in front of you. Clench your fists tightly for five seconds. Then Relax. Feel the warmth and calmness in your hands.
• Forearms – Extend your arms out against an invisible wall and push forward with your hands for five seconds. Then Relax.
• Upper arms – Bend your elbows. Tense your biceps for five seconds. Relax. Feel the tension leave your arms.
• Shoulders – Shrug your shoulders up to your ears for five seconds. Relax.
• Back – Arch your back off the floor for five seconds. Relax. Feel the anxiety and tension disappearing.
• Stomach – Tighten your stomach muscles for five seconds. Relax.
• Hips and buttocks – Tighten your hip and buttock muscles for five seconds. Relax.
• Thighs – Tighten your thigh muscles by pressing your legs together as tightly as you can for five seconds. Relax.
• Feet – Bend your ankles toward your body as far as you can for five seconds. Relax.
• Toes – Curl your toes as tightly as you can for five seconds. Relax.

Focus on any muscles which may still be tense. If any muscle remains tense, tighten and relax that specific muscle three or four times.

If you prefer to have a recorded relaxation that helps you reduce stress, please Join the Newsletter. Three free downloads are available for immediate download and one of them is to reduce stress.

It’s similar to a progressive muscle relaxation although I think it’s a little easier since it’s all done in your mind. You don’t have to tense and release anything. Some people prefer that to the tense/release practice.

Just a reminder that I do Adult Autism Evaluations for residents of Florida. Grab your Free Consultation with me to get the deets on working together (the how, the when, the where, and the how much)!

Schedule Appointment

Peace and Health,

Dr. Liz

The post How to do a Progressive Muscle Relaxation Step by Step appeared first on Evaluations With Dr. Liz.

Eva was diagnosed at 15 years old, which was a surprise. I later discovered that it’s pretty typical for females to be diagnosed in middle or high school instead of elementary school like most boys are.

Girls and women go un-diagnosed but that doesn’t mean that they haven’t struggled for years, even decades.

It’s the main reason that I sought training in how to do Adult Autism Evaluations.

Although sometimes controversial, often a diagnosis helps them understand themselves as well as help others understand them – teachers/professors, employers, friends, partners, and loved ones.

For example, I sometimes see someone who is truly struggling in their marriage with a lack of understanding of how their own neurodivergence is contributing to differences in the marriage that their more neurotypical partner does not understand.

Once a neurodivergent need is pointed out (like alone time being necessary to not overstimulate someone), it becomes much easier for the couple to adapt.

Are you Autistic?

There are several online tests you can take to give you an idea.

Take an Online Test at Embrace Autism

Those may be enough for you. But if you score in that direction, are 18+, and want a full assessment from a professional, please feel free to contact me.

Btw, the Embrace Autism website is an excellent resource for understanding neurodivergence!

Before you go, remember to get your Free Hypnosis to reduce Fear and Anxiety!

I do evaluations for people in the state of Florida or who live outside of the United States.

Grab your Free Consultation with me to get the deets on working together (the how, the when, the where, and the how much)!

Schedule Appointment

Peace and Health,

Dr. Liz

The post Autistic? How do you know? appeared first on Evaluations With Dr. Liz.