Intended Parent Implications Counselling with Report

Implications Counselling is required by all fertility clinics in advance of a Donor or Surrogacy journey, and with many clinics in advance of an egg freezing, IVF, or co-parenting arrangement. We strive to provide this required service in a non-judgmental, open-minded atmosphere, with the goal of improving patient awareness, understanding and knowledge, while reducing anxiety and identifying concerns. This type of counselling is not designed as an assessment.

With lived experiences undergoing IVF and surrogacy (Dara), reciprocal IVF with donor sperm (Claire), and as a gestational carrier (Blair), we have first-hand insight into how overwhelming the assisted fertility process can be, and aim for clients leave their appointments feeling more empowered and confident in their choices.

When a couple is involved, both partners must attend the Implications Counselling session, which typically is completed in one 90-minute appointment, though occasionally requires a 2nd appointment of 30-60 minutes.

In this time, we work closely with clients to:

  • Prepare emotionally, medically and logistically
  • Explore, validate and help set cycle expectations
  • Identify short and long-term goals
  • Answer questions, provide information and identify concerns
  • Provide solution options to potential and actual challenges
  • Understand different pathways to accessing Donors/Surrogates and the pros and cons of each (when applicable)
  • Set the foundation for an appropriate and positive relationship with a Donor and/or Surrogate (when appliable)
  • Explore if ongoing supports/additional information would be beneficial moving forward
As Implications Counselling is a clinic requirement prior to proceeding with many types of treatments, notes are taken during the session and a report summarizing discussion points is sent to the Intended Parent(s) and fertility clinic, typically within 2 weeks of the session date. As such, a consent form authorizing the writing and release of this report is required in advance of this type of appointment.

When moving forward with a donor or surrogacy cycle, this type of 3rd Party Counselling appointment is an important (and clinic required) step prior to moving forward, and this includes when working with Known Donors/Surrogates who will be part of your child’s life into the future. Discussing expectations and concerns with a trained Reproductive Counsellor from the start, is essential in ensuring positive outcomes for everyone or in some situations, identifying concerns which may result in new pathway choices.

Please note that some clinics also require a separate, joint session with Intended Parent(s) and their Known Donor/Surrogate, and all clinics support this additional appointment when significant concerns are identified in initial sessions. Please check with us and/or your fertility clinic for more information in this regard.

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