What if I fail my gestational carrier psychological evalutation?

It’s important to understand that there is no “pass” or “fail” when it comes to a gestational carrier psychological evaluation. The evaluation is designed to assess your emotional readiness and ensure that you are fully prepared for the unique challenges of surrogacy. If concerns arise during the evaluation, it doesn’t mean that you’ve “failed”—it simply indicates that certain areas may need further attention before moving forward in the surrogacy process.

If the psychologist identifies concerns about your emotional well-being, mental health, or readiness for surrogacy, PECNA will provide you with detailed feedback and guidance on the next steps. This might involve recommending additional counseling, education, or support to help you better prepare for the emotional and psychological demands of surrogacy. You may be referred for further evaluation or therapy to address specific concerns, such as managing stress, understanding the complexities of surrogacy, or strengthening your support network.

The goal of the evaluation is to ensure that both you and the intended parents have a positive, healthy, and emotionally secure surrogacy experience. Addressing any concerns upfront helps protect your well-being and ensures that everyone involved is well-prepared for the journey ahead. After receiving additional support or completing any recommended steps, you may have the opportunity to re-assess your readiness for surrogacy.

Ultimately, the evaluation is meant to support you, not judge or disqualify you, and PECNA will work closely with you to ensure you are emotionally and mentally prepared for the surrogacy process.

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FOUNDER

Dr. Irada Wattanavitukul, Ph.D., LPC., LMHC

Licensed mental health professional with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

Dr. Irada received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology (Los Angeles) and is a highly respected licensed mental health professional with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with specialized training in trauma-informed care, neurodevelopmental assessments, and immigration evaluations. She is deeply committed to supporting individuals and families impacted by trauma, abuse, and developmental challenges, offering evaluations and guidance tailored to their unique needs.

Dr. Irada works extensively with survivors of violence, victims of crime, and individuals with developmental disabilities, ensuring they receive the support and resources they need to thrive. Her compassionate approach helps people navigate the emotional and psychological challenges that often accompany these experiences. Additionally, she plays a critical role in helping families stay together by assisting those going through the immigration process. She understands the emotional toll of separation and provides evaluations and support that empower families to advocate for the protections and accommodations they deserve.

In addition to her work with trauma and immigration, Dr. Irada has completed specialized training in Psychological Evaluation for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) through the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). As a member of ASRM and its Mental Health Professionals Group (MHPG), she supports individuals and families on their family-building journeys. Her evaluations help identify emotional needs and provide guidance to ensure the well-being of all involved.

Dr. Irada’s expertise and dedication have earned her national recognition. She holds an EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) status, a prestigious acknowledgment of her significant contributions to mental health in the United States. Her work with high-need populations—such as trauma survivors and individuals with developmental challenges—has had a meaningful impact, helping many achieve healing and personal growth.

By combining her expertise in forensic psychology, trauma-informed care, neurodevelopmental assessments, and family support, Dr. Irada has become a key figure in her field. Her compassionate and thorough approach not only benefits individuals and families but also strengthens communities by fostering resilience and well-being.