Pre-Surgical Bariatric Evaluations
Comprehensive psychological evaluations designed to assess readiness for bariatric surgery while identifying strengths, potential barriers, and recommendations that support long-term success. The goal is to provide your surgical team with a thoughtful, evidence-based assessment while helping you prepare for this important life change.
A Thoughtful, Individualized Approach
Bariatric evaluations became an unexpected but rewarding part of my practice early in my transition to private practice. Over the years, I've come to genuinely enjoy working with individuals pursuing bariatric surgery and appreciate the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful turning point in their lives.
While GLP-1 medications have expanded treatment options for obesity, they are not the right solution for everyone. Medical considerations, side effects, insurance coverage, cost, and personal preference all play a role. For many individuals, bariatric surgery continues to be an important and effective treatment option.
In my clinical experience, many individuals seeking bariatric surgery also experience co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a history of trauma. These diagnoses do not automatically prevent someone from being an appropriate surgical candidate. Instead, the focus is on determining whether any mental health concerns are appropriately understood and managed before surgery. When appropriate supports are in place, individuals are often well positioned for both successful weight loss and meaningful improvements in their overall quality of life.
Who I Typically Evaluate
Adults
Individuals pursuing bariatric surgery
First-time surgical candidates
Individuals seeking revision surgery (when requested)
Patients referred by bariatric surgery programs
Individuals with co-occurring mental health concerns seeking psychological clearance
What the Evaluation Includes
Each evaluation is individualized based on your medical history, mental health history, and the requirements of your bariatric surgery program. Depending on your needs, the evaluation may include:
Comprehensive clinical interview
Review of medical, psychiatric, and weight-loss history
Assessment of readiness for bariatric surgery
Standardized psychological screening measures
Identification of strengths and potential barriers
Individualized recommendations when appropriate
A comprehensive written report, typically completed within 7–10 business days after all evaluation components have been received
Most pre-surgical bariatric evaluations range from $500–700, depending on the complexity of the referral and any records reviewed. The $150 Consultation Fee is put towards the cost the pre-surgical evaluation.
What the Evaluation Looks At
Your understanding of the procedure and the lifestyle changes required after surgery
Eating patterns and history, including emotional or binge eating
Mood, anxiety, and other mental health concerns
Alcohol, nicotine, and substance use
Coping strategies and current stressors
Your support system at home
Readiness and motivation for long-term change
What Your Surgical Team Receives
A written report with clinical impressions, an opinion on psychological readiness, and practical recommendations for support before and after surgery. The report is provided to you to submit to your program, or can be sent directly to your surgeon or bariatric program with your written authorization. I will also complete any evaluation forms or documentation your program requires.
How to Prepare
Any evaluation forms or requirements from your surgical program
A current list of medications
Information about past mental health treatment, if any
A quiet, private space with a reliable internet connection and camera
Bariatric Evaluation FAQ
Is this a pass/fail test?
No. The goal is to identify strengths and anything that will help you succeed. When concerns come up, recommendations usually focus on support or steps to take before surgery.
Will my program accept a telehealth evaluation?
Most programs do, but please confirm with your program before scheduling.
I don’t live in Pennsylvania. Can I still be seen?
Yes, if you live in one of the 43+ PSYPACT-participating states.
Do you take insurance?
Keystone Teleassessments is a private-pay practice.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
A pre-surgical psychological evaluation is more than a program requirement—it's an opportunity to identify strengths, address potential barriers, and help prepare for long-term success after surgery. If you've been referred for an evaluation or are preparing to begin your bariatric journey, I'd be happy to guide you through the process.