Mental health treatment, particularly hospitalization programs (sometimes referred to as “Residential” or “Partial Hospitalization Programs”), is often lacking in other countries, particularly in South America and Asia. At Crossbridge Clinical Associates, our team of psychologists and network of concierge physicians can assist foreign nationals in locating mental health or substance use treatment for their loved ones or themselves.

If you or a loved one intends to travel to the United States for medical reasons, the appropriate visa to request is the B-2 Visa. This process typically commences with a consultation with a US-based psychologist or physician for mental health purposes. Depending on the recommendations, the individual will then need to apply through their local US embassy or consulate. To be successful in obtaining a B-2 visa, an individual must demonstrate that the treatment is medically necessary and unavailable in their home country, as well as prove that they have the financial means to cover the costs of care.

CrossBridge Clinical Associates has established partnerships with nationwide interventionists, law firms, and concierge psychiatrists who specialize in providing the medical assessments required by the United States Department of State for a B-2 Visa. Furthermore, CrossBridge Clinical Associates’ network of psychologists and physicians is proficient in Mandarin, Cantonese, Portuguese, Spanish, and Farsi, which can be a crucial factor in ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the necessary medical documentation.

To qualify for a B-2 Visa, a client must demonstrate to U.S. immigration authorities that they intend to make a brief and temporary visit to the United States for the purpose of obtaining necessary medical treatment. As part of the application process, a client will be required to provide evidence that substantiates this purpose.

• Are traveling to the U.S. solely to receive medical treatment 
• If pregnant, that a client's primary reason for travel is not to give birth in the United States 
• Plan to stay for a temporary and specified period of time, as corroborated by a letter from the client's treating physician or medical facility. CCA's dedicated team can help locate housing placement for those seeking mental health or substance use treatment. 
• Have a permanent residence outside the United States as well as other binding ties (such as family and a permanent job) that will demonstrate that a client plans intend to return home at the end of their permitted stay 
• Have a valid, unexpired passport enabling to the client to return to their home country at the end of their visit 
• Have the financial means to pay for the needed travel and personal expenses during the client's U.S. visit, and have the financial means to pay for the costs of medical treatment. 
• Depending on circumstances, a client may need to be examined by a US physician at their local US consulate / embassy office. CrossBridge Clinical Associates network of psychologists and physicians can conduct evaluations via secured video conference, or arrange for an in-person meeting at the consulate embassy office.  

When a client visits the U.S. consulate to request a B-2 visa, they have a limited timeframe to provide detailed documentation explaining the medical necessity for mental health treatment. Preparing in advance through a medical consultation, evaluation, and treatment plan can significantly enhance the chances of visa approval. At CrossBridge Clinical Associates (CCA), we offer comprehensive support in facilitating hospital or residential treatment center admissions prior to the meeting with the U.S. Department of State.

In Order to Receive a B-2 a Individual  will need to demonstrate that:

• They have received a particular medical / mental health / substance use diagnosis from a local physician, which requires treatment in the United States.
• A physician or medical facility / Treatment center in the U.S. is willing to admit and treat them
• The cost of transportation, treatment and all medical-related expenses have been estimated and someone will take responsibility for covering them

CCA staff has assisted clients from South America, Asia, and the Middle East in their admissions to highly rated and experienced treatment centers throughout the United States. CCA staff can also assist with the logistics of transportation, case management, and aftercare placements (i.e. halfway house) of clients seeking a B-2 Visa.