The goal and focus for speaking to a mental health professional is to build a family with a solid foundation both physically and psychologically. Perhaps you are uncertain about “next steps” in overcoming the fertility challenges you are facing? Maybe you are single, have a medical obstacle, or family history that is a factor. I hope to be a “bridge“ to help you reach your desired family plan.
In accordance with ethical and prudent practices established by ASRM/American Society for Reproductive Medicine most fertility specialists require a psychological consultation prior to moving forward with a gestational carrier or gamete donor. This is not a therapy session but rather an opportunity to have an important conversation about your specific fertility challenges, the significant decisions needing to be made, and the impact of those decisions now and in the future.
In order to be fully informed and prepared for the IVF journey, whether with a surrogate, egg or sperm donor there are several important considerations:
- What is the reason for seeking or needing reproductive services?
- How have you and your relationship been impacted by infertility?
- What do you need in order to move forward? Locate a reproductive specialist? Choose an egg/sperm donor? Find a gestational carrier? Create embryos? Consider an egg bank?
- What is your understanding about the process? Medical? Legal? Financial?
- Considering and identifying expectations?
- Managing the unexpected, failed cycles, miscarriage, a multiple pregnancy, abnormalities, pre term delivery.
- Telling children, family and friends about IVF, surrogacy or gamete donation.
These are among the topics discussed during a clearance consultation, as well as issues specific to each individual circumstance. Plan for about 1-1.5 hours. If you are in a partnership it is important that both of you attend. This appointment can be in the office or virtual and at a time when you can focus and not feel rushed. After the consultation I will write a clearance statement that will be sent to your doctor, agency or referring professional. You will have the opportunity to review the clearance letter before it is sent to any requesting professional.