If you are using a gestational carrier (someone who will carry the fetus to term, but is not donating their eggs) on your fertility journey, then this evaluation is required for said carrier. If you wish to use a gestational carrier who you already know and have a relationship with, you may set this up directly. If you are using a gestational carrier found through a third-party organization we suggest you check with them about this evaluation, as they may be handling it on their end already. If you are an organization seeking this evaluation for a potential gestational carrier, we are happy to assist you in that process as well. Typically this evaluation begins with some intake paperwork and an online assessment to gather some initial information prior to the gestational carrier’s interview with a Thrive therapist. If applicable, the gestational carrier’s partner or support person should join them for the clinical interview and complete their own online assessment as well. Afterwards, the clinician will review all of the information and create a report based on their evaluation with their recommendation to share with the fertility clinic.

If you are the intended parent(s) seeking out third-party reproduction services, then this session is for you to discuss your fertility journey and plans with a qualified mental health professional. While we understand this is not a decision you’ve entered into lightly, per the guidance of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, this session is a necessary step to review and consult on the implications of third-party reproduction in your life. We like to view it as a chance for you to reflect and share with us, and also ask any questions you may have as it relates to the psychoeducational nature of the consultation. After the session, the clinician will create a brief report for your physician/clinic. This is not meant to be an evaluation to pass or fail, but rather a safe space to discuss this next big transition and step in your life. If you intend to use a gestational carrier or directed donor, it can also be a nice space to prepare for your joint session (see details on this below) with your gestational carrier or directed donor and think about what you want to discuss there with the guidance of your clinician. We also want to offer and encourage the continuation of meeting as an individual and/or couple during this process, as we know it can be equally exciting and stressful.

If you are using a donor egg, sperm, or embryo, then this evaluation is required for said donor. If you are using a directed donor who you know, you may set this up directly. If you are using an anonymous donor, check with your clinic or donor organization, as they may be handling this evaluation. If you are an organization seeking this evaluation for a potential donor, we are happy to assist you in that process as well. Typically this evaluation begins with some intake paperwork and an online assessment to gather some initial information prior to the donor’s interview with a Thrive therapist. For directed donors, if applicable, their partners should be included in the clinical interview. Afterwards, the clinician will review all of the information and create a report based on their evaluation with their recommendation to share with the fertility clinic.

If you are the intended parent(s) working with a directed donor or gestational carrier, then this session is for you to meet with your directed donor or gestational carrier and their partner/support person if applicable to discuss the implications of the arrangement. After the separate directed donor or gestational carrier evaluations and the intended parent sessions are complete, you would meet with your clinician for the joint session all together. This gives you space to discuss the implications of what you discussed individually in your sessions together to manage expectations and discuss any remaining concerns to ensure this truly is the best fit for all of you. We do encourage follow-up joint sessions to create an intentional space during pregnancy and after delivery to continue managing whatever comes up and create a healthy channel for communication between all parties.

The postpartum period, while filled with joy, can also bring about emotional challenges, particularly in the form of postpartum depression (PPD). To effectively address this, a thorough postpartum depression evaluation is essential. This evaluation involves in-depth clinical interviews, standardized screening tools, an assessment of medical and psychiatric history, evaluation of support systems, a physical examination, and consideration of symptom duration and severity. Early identification through evaluation is paramount for helping new mothers navigate postpartum depression and regain their emotional well-being.