I provide psychological evaluations of:

•       Egg and sperm donor candidates

•       Gestational carrier candidates (Surrogates)

For egg and sperm donor candidates and for all gestational carrier candidates, the psychological evaluation involves a clinical interview, psychological testing with the Minnesota Multi-Phasic Personality Inventory, Second Edition (MMPI-II), and a written evaluative report summary.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long does the psychological evaluation appointment take?

For egg and sperm donor candidates and for all gestational carrier candidates, the psychological evaluation appointment involves approximately 120 - 150 minutes with the candidate. This includes both interview and testing time. In addition, an additional 60 minutes of my time is required for test scoring, interpretation, assimilation of data and observations, and evaluative report writing.

A sixty minute interview is often required for the intended parents of surrogate candidates to discuss their understanding and appreciation of the psychological and emotional implications involved.

How much will the psychological evaluation cost?

•       Gestational Carrier Candidates (Surrogates): $600

•       Donor Candidates: $575

For Surrogates, a sixty minute interview is also recommended for the intended parent/s: $350

These fees apply whether or not a candidate  or the intended parents “passes” the evaluation.

When is payment owed for the psychological evaluation?

Payment is owed prior to or at the time of service for the psychological evaluation appointment.

Can I use insurance for the psychological evaluation?

Unfortunately, no. Given the nature of the service, I am focusing on the candidate’s understanding of and suitability to fulfill a certain role rather than on diagnosing or treating a mental health condition. Insurance companies typically require a billing code that reflects the diagnosis or treatment of a mental health disorder to reimburse for services, which is not applicable in this case.

If I have a partner, do both of us need to attend the psychological evaluation?

For previously known egg and sperm donor candidates and for all gestational carrier candidates who are either married or living with a partner, both members of the couple must attend the interview portion of the evaluation. The partner can leave at the conclusion of the interview when the donor or carrier candidate begins the psychological testing.

What is the purpose of the psychological evaluation?

The psychological evaluation is intended to assess the candidate’s:

•       Motivation for serving as a donor or carrier

•       Understanding and appreciation of the psychological and emotional implications involved

•       Understanding and appreciation of the time commitment and medical aspects of treatment involved

•       Perspectives about the future child and oneself in relation to that child now and in the future

•       If donor or carrier is previously known, considerations of the impact on the existing and future relationship

•       Personal and familial mental health history, including any background of trauma or mental health issues.

•       Current psychological and emotional stability

•       Preparedess for various cycle outcomes

•       Reliability and responsibility

•       Lifestyle factors

The evaluation also serves as an opportunity for education and discussion about relevant topics such as:

•       Preferences regarding the nature, frequency, and parameters of any contact with the parents or resulting offspring

•       Number of embryos to be transferred and potential for twins or multiple gestation

•       Parameters for consideration of multifetal reduction

•       Decisions about remaining embryos