Most fertility clinics in California follow ethical standards set forth by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), requiring anyone who is proceeding with third party reproduction (using donor genetic material or a gestational carrier) that they have a one time consultation with a therapist.

The consultations are an opportunity to discuss past fertility and treatment, address emotional readiness, talk through the types of arrangements with donors and gestational carriers, and how to navigate the future considerations regarding disclosure, limitations of anonymity, boundaries within known arrangements and resourcing you with materials and guidance to move forward.

Consultations are about an hour and are usually conducted virtually. Clinics request a summary letter be submitted from the therapist to the nurse coordinators and attending physician that includes the topics discussed and verifies the session took place.

In addition to the consultations, I am available for ongoing support sessions with both couples and individuals.

Gestational carriers (aka surrogates) are required to complete a psychological screening in support of their suitability in this role. The screening entails in-depth discussion around family history, current understanding of family and environment, professional and educational background, physical and mental health screening. We will also discuss motivations for becoming a gestational carrier, how to advocate for oneself in this role, and the unique psychological experience of surrogacy to best determine readiness. Personality testing is often a required part of the screening process. Partners/spouses are also requested to be present for a portion of the screening.

I also provide monthly support check ins as well as joint sessions for gestational carriers and intended parents to discuss any issues or needs that arise in their relationship.

All donors are required to complete a screening process to better explore whether being a donor is the right choice for them. During these screenings, we will discuss motivations, present and future understanding of how this decision will impact their lives, disclosure, limits of anonymity, how to navigate open and known relationships, and advocacy for care through the medical process.

We will review the donor’s physical and mental health history, as well as lifestyle, support systems and professional/educational background. Personality testing often accompanies the screening process.

When people have made the choice to relinquish their remaining embryos to another family, a consultation to discuss the decision is usually required by fertility clinics. This type of consultation is also something I provide to individuals and families.

I also offer ongoing support to donor-conceived people, as well as their families to further explore this part of their identity.