CLINICAL SERVICES 

The Mount Sinai Human Rights Program assists individuals, both in the community and in immigration detention centers, who are seeking asylum in the United States and who have experienced torture or other human rights abuses in their countries of origin. We conduct expedited pro bono trauma-informed and culturally-responsive forensic psychological, physical, and/or gynecological evaluations that adhere to Istanbul Protocol guidelines.

Our program brings the Icahn School of Medicine’s existing global health efforts to the local level, and capitalizes on the diverse clinical expertise possessed by key faculty members. Our clinicians have specialized training and experience in recognizing, evaluating, and documenting evidence of exposure to persecution, discrimination, abuse, conflict, and displacement — issues at the heart of many applications for asylum and other forms of immigration relief. The pro bono medical-legal affidavits that our evaluators submit to immigration courts on behalf of survivors are frequently the determining factor in whether asylum is granted or other relief from deportation is obtained. The program serves as a safe haven for individuals and families who have been exposed to ill treatment, in which to share their experiences and stories.