Creating a Mental Health Referral Protocol That Actually Works—For Fertility Clinics and Clients

Here’s how clinics and agencies can build a mental health referral process that works for both your team and your clients.

Step 1: Identify Key Support Moments in the Journey

A strong mental health protocol isn’t just about evaluations, it’s about knowing when emotional support can enhance care.

Examples of helpful support touchpoints include:

• Failed cycles or match disruptions
• Unexpected delays (6–9 months or longer between major milestones)
• Postpartum or post-transfer transitions
• Significant life changes (loss, relocation, major health events)
• Emotional overwhelm, ambivalence, or communication breakdowns

While these moments may not require re-evaluation, they are often ideal times to connect your clients with a mental health professional. Proactive support can help prevent more serious issues down the line.

Step 2: Normalize Mental Health as Part of Fertility Care

Patients are more likely to accept support when it feels like a natural part of their journey, not a punishment or red flag.

Ways to normalize mental health integration:

• Use language like “emotional support” rather than “clearance”
• Introduce therapists early (e.g., in welcome materials or onboarding sessions)
• Include mental health professionals in case coordination when appropriate
• Share that support is ongoing, not just a one-time requirement

When mental health is woven into care—not siloed or stigmatized—clients engage more meaningfully.

Step 3: Create a Simple, Clear Referral Workflow

If your team isn’t sure when or how to refer to a therapist, support can slip through the cracks. Build a simple internal process to make referrals efficient and effective.

Suggestions:

• Designate a centralized referral method (shared form, email alias, etc.)
• Clarify referral triggers by client type (IP, surrogate, donor)
• Set expected timelines for scheduling and clinician feedback (e.g., 48–72 hours)

A smooth workflow empowers your staff and ensures clients receive timely care.

Step 4: Choose a Mental Health Partner Who Understands Third-Party Reproduction

Therapists unfamiliar with fertility or third-party reproduction may not understand the nuances of your clients' needs. A specialized partner makes a difference.

Look for providers who offer:

• Initial evaluations tailored to surrogates, donors, and intended parents
• Post-evaluation support for those who want it
• Trauma-informed care for disrupted cycles or loss
• Responsive communication with your team

At Thallo Health, our experienced, diverse team collaborates with fertility professionals to provide thoughtful, high-quality mental health services across the journey.

Step 5: Build a Feedback Loop with Your Mental Health Partner

Referrals shouldn’t be one-and-done. Keep communication flowing to improve care and outcomes.

Ideas for follow-up:

• Confirm evaluation completion and insights (with consent)
• Include therapists in case reviews when appropriate
• Ask for feedback on referral patterns, trends, and challenges
• Revisit your referral process regularly to ensure it’s meeting client needs

Embedding emotional support into the fabric of fertility care isn’t about adding work, it’s about building a better experience for everyone. When clinics, agencies, and therapists work together, clients feel seen, supported, and resilient—no matter how their journey unfolds.

Want to improve your clinic or agency’s mental health protocol?
Thallo Health offers evaluations, therapist-moderated support spaces, and ongoing care tailored to third-party reproduction.

Reach out to us at hello@thallohealth.com or visit thallohealth.com to learn more.

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