Kristin Davin, Psy.D., Clinical Psychologist

Pre-Surgical Bariatric Evaluations

As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I have worked extensively with adults who need a Pre-Surgical Bariatric Clearance Evaluation. I have been trained to conduct assessments in accordance with The American Society of Bariatric Surgery.

My experience includes research which explored the effects on body image satisfaction/dissatisfaction and sexual functioning in both men and women before and after bariatric surgery.

I utilize industry standard assessment tools to ensure clinical and diagnostic accuracy.

All evaluations consists of a comprehensive diagnostic/clinical interview, administration of multiple assessment tools, a document review of previous evaluations, and psychiatric or medical notes.

·    I am licensed in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Florida.

·    All evaluations are completely virtual, making them easy and convenient.

·    I utilize a private and secure (HIPAA compliant) platform.

I'm currently in network with Aetna and Oxford health insurance plans (through Alma). Evaluations may be partially covered by insurance and/or OON benefits.

If you are using insurance, there is an additional fee of $50.00 for the paperwork and the additional time it takes these assessments to complete.

If you are paying out of pocket or using your out of network benefits my rate is $250.00. I provide a receipt which you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.

The process and what you need to know

The psychological evaluation. This is an integral component of your weight loss journey. The evaluation is designed to ensure that you are not only physically prepared but also emotionally and mentally ready for this next chapter in your life. During your evaluation, you will discuss your weight loss goals and any emotional or psychological challenge you may be experiencing at the time. I will guide you through this process, providing support and insight to help you achieve lasting results and success.

If you choose to move forward, I will help you add your insurance information to the Alma portal to confirm benefits. Once completed and you receive an email with the insurance coverage, I will send you paperwork (all PDF fillable forms) to complete and send back to me) prior to our initial evaluation.

During the interview:

• We review your assessments (anxiety, depression, body dissatisfaction, drug and alcohol dependence, and the possible presence of eating disorders) and explore your emotional relationship with food and history of eating disorders and your ability to cope with stress and life challenges and changes.

• Discuss past attempts to lose weight and severity and duration of your obesity.

• Explore your understanding of potential complications of surgery dietary restrictions and behavioral changes that will be needed for your success post surgery.

• Discuss your weight loss goals and post-surgical plans such as exercise plans and lifestyle adherence and changes.

• Explore your emotional and psychological readiness for surgery and address any questions or concerns you may have

• Discuss  your current medical concerns and health and family medical history. 

The entire assessment is usually accomplished within a 45 minute session which includes the clinical interview. Your surgeon can expect to receive the report within 48 hours following the psychological evaluation and all paperwork received and reviewed. The interview will also provide an opportunity for you to discuss any of your concerns around future complications of your obesity.

Interested in working together after surgery? I offer bariatric therapy, so let’s chat. You can set up a free 15 minute consultation to see if we would be a good fit here.