Surrogacy Psychological Evaluation Explained: What Intended Parents & Surrogates Should Expect
Release Date: 04/27/2026
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info_outlineWhat happens during a psychological evaluation in surrogacy, and why is it required for both intended parents and surrogates?
In this episode of The Surrogate Buzz, host Rebecca Deegan, Senior Client Services Director at Surrogate Alternatives, is joined by Dr. Steven Covelluzzi, a clinical psychologist specializing in third-party reproduction, to explain how the psychological screening process works and why it plays a critical role in successful surrogacy journeys.
The psychological evaluation is one of the most important and often misunderstood steps in surrogacy. Many intended parents and surrogates feel uncertain about what is being assessed, what questions will be asked, and whether the process is something they need to “pass.”
This conversation breaks down what actually happens during a surrogacy psychological evaluation, including how emotional readiness, expectations, communication, and support systems are assessed. Dr. Covelluzzi explains that this is not a pass-or-fail test, but a structured consultation designed to help identify potential challenges early and support both parties throughout the journey.
The episode also explores the emotional realities of surrogacy, including trust, control, and the relationship between intended parents and surrogates, helping listeners better understand what it truly means to move forward with a surrogacy journey.
WHAT THIS EPISODE COVERS
• What a surrogacy psychological evaluation is
• Why both intended parents and surrogates must complete a psych screening
• What psychologists assess during the process
• Emotional readiness and expectations in surrogacy
• Common fears about the psych evaluation process
• The role of trust and control in surrogacy
• What makes a surrogate psychologically prepared
• How agencies and psychologists support the journey
WHO THIS EPISODE IS FOR
Intended parents considering surrogacy
Women thinking about becoming a surrogate
Families preparing for a surrogacy journey
Anyone wanting to understand the psychological side of surrogacy
QUESTIONS ANSWERED
What happens during a surrogacy psychological evaluation?
Is the psych evaluation a pass or fail process?
Why do intended parents need a psychological screening?
What are psychologists looking for in a surrogate?
How does emotional readiness impact a surrogacy journey?
ABOUT OUR GUEST
Dr. Stephen Covelluzzi is a clinical psychologist specializing in surrogacy and third-party reproduction. With years of experience supporting intended parents and surrogates, he helps individuals navigate the emotional, relational, and psychological aspects of the surrogacy process.
Learn more:
https://www.sjcbehavioralhealth.com
ABOUT THE SURROGATE BUZZ
The Surrogate Buzz is a podcast created by Surrogate Alternatives, Inc., a U.S. surrogacy agency with more than 28 years of experience helping intended parents and surrogates navigate ethical, transparent, and relationship-focused surrogacy journeys.