Mental health counselor with advanced degree sought NIW for independent practice. Petitioner argued field importance and her expertise; AAO affirmed denial because proposed solo practice lacked national importance, operating only at individual patient level without business plan, projections, or broader regional or national impact.

Chief executive sought EB-2 NIW to develop online application providing mental health strategies. AAO held endeavor has merit but lacks national importance; projected employment of eight jobs and modest profit do not meet Dhanasar's substantial economic effects threshold.

A speech therapist with 23 years of experience seeking EB-2 with national interest waiver to provide specialized services to Hispanic-Latino populations. AAO vacated denial of advanced degree eligibility but affirmed NIW denial because petitioner failed to show national importance; shortage of healthcare workers and personal patient care were insufficient without evidence of broader field impact or substantial economic effects.

Industrial and organizational psychologist with U.S. master's degree seeks NIW for EB-2. Claimed her work reducing corporate burnout and improving employee engagement has national importance. AAO held the specific endeavor lacks national importance because it would not extend beyond individual companies to impact the field broadly.