Fertility services listed below are offered by Licensed Clinical Psychologist Dr. Stephanie Rabin Scherr following all standards set forth by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).
Psychoeducational Consultation for Intended Parents
If you are considering using donor eggs, donor sperm, donor embryos, or a gestational carrier to build your family, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) strongly recommends a meeting with a mental health professional. Many clinics require this step to be completed before moving forward. Although this is one more task on a seemingly endless list, it is important to have an opportunity to talk through feelings of grief and loss, discuss the implications of using a donor or gestational carrier, discuss when and how to disclose, and consider ways to navigate future conversations and relationships. A written summary will be provided to your clinic or agency, along with a list of resources that you may find helpful now or in the future.
Embryo Donor Consultations
Exploring the motivations and implications of donating embryos, including considerations in future contact from the donor conceived child.
Psychological Evaluations for Donors and Gestational Carriers
The ASRM recommends that all sperm and egg donors, as well as gestational carriers (and their partner, if applicable), undergo psychological screening and implications counseling. The process involves education about the process, an interview, and completing a standardized inventory in order to assess the psychological health of the donor or gestational carrier. A written report is provided to the referring clinic or agency.
Group Meetings
If you plan to use a directed (known) gamete donor, or are using donor embryos, the ASRM recommends that all parties meet together to discuss a range of topics, including expectations, impacts on the families involved, communication, and disclosure. This meeting helps to promote agreement between all parties and make for a positive experience both now and into the future.
If you are working with a gestational carrier, a joint meeting between the intended parents and gestational carrier (and partner, if applicable) is strongly recommended. This meeting will focus on communication of expectations prior to, during, and after the pregnancy and birth. It is important that intended parents and the gestational carrier are in agreement as they navigate this complex process.
Psychotherapy
Individual psychotherapy helps clients deal with particular issues or stressors and assists with overall psychological and emotional growth.
If you have questions about this offering or would like to book an appointment, please reach out to us at (315) 217-6888 extension 1 or use our intake form below: