Dr. Lotterman

Donor Gamete Consultations & Evaluations

Considering Donor Sperm, Donor Eggs, or Embryo Donation?

Using donor gametes or donor embryos is often an exciting step toward building your family. At the same time, it can bring up emotions, questions, and decisions that you may not have anticipated.

Who I Work With

I provide donor gamete consultations and evaluations for individuals and couples using donor sperm, donor eggs, or donor embryos, as well as for individuals who are serving as known (directed) donors.

Whether you are building your family through donor conception or considering donating to help someone else build theirs, these consultations provide an opportunity to explore the emotional and practical considerations involved in the process.

I work with:

  • Intended parents using donor sperm, donor eggs, or donor embryos

  • Single parents by choice pursuing donor conception

  • LGBTQ+ individuals and couples pursuing family-building through donor conception

  • Known (directed) sperm, egg, or embryo donors

  • Family members or friends serving as donors

  • Recipients and donors who require a psychological consultation as part of their fertility clinic's process

I also provide psychological consultations and evaluations related to gestational carrier arrangements. Please contact me to discuss your clinic's specific requirements.

What Is a Donor Gamete Evaluation?

Many fertility clinics require a psychological consultation before proceeding with donor conception. These consultations are conducted in accordance with current ASRM recommendations and clinic-specific requirements.

The purpose of the consultation is not to determine whether you are "fit" to become a parent. Rather, it is an opportunity to discuss the emotional, relational, and practical aspects of donor conception and to ensure that you have the information and support you need.

During our meeting, we may discuss topics such as:

  • Your path to donor conception and the emotions surrounding that journey

  • Feelings about genetics, identity, grief, loss, or expectations

  • Disclosure decisions and plans for talking with future children about their origins

  • Donor anonymity, open-identity donors, and future contact considerations

  • Partner perspectives and family dynamics

  • Social support systems and coping resources

  • Questions or concerns you may have about donor conception

My goal is not to judge or evaluate your parenting potential. Instead, I aim to create a thoughtful, nonjudgmental space where we can explore these topics together.

What to Expect

The evaluation typically consists of a single clinical interview lasting approximately 60–90 minutes. Depending on your clinic's requirements, partners may attend together. Some clinics require use of specific questionnaires or measures, which we will discuss and integrate into your session as needed.

Following the consultation, I will provide the documentation required by your fertility clinic. Reports and recommendations are tailored to the requirements of your specific clinic and are consistent with current ASRM guidance.

Why Work With Me?

I am a clinical psychologist with specialized experience in reproductive mental health, infertility, IVF, pregnancy, and family building. Much of my work has focused on helping individuals and couples navigate the emotional complexities that can arise throughout the fertility journey.

I understand that donor conception often involves both excitement and loss. Many intended parents find themselves holding gratitude for the opportunity to build their family while also grieving aspects of the path they expected to take. Both experiences can exist at the same time.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. You do not need to arrive with all the answers, or even with all the questions. My role is to serve as a guide through all of this.

Scheduling

I offer ASRM-informed donor gamete consultations virtually and, when appropriate, in person in Greenwich, Connecticut.

If your fertility clinic has requested a donor gamete evaluation or if you would like to learn more about the process, please reach out to schedule a consultation.