Pre-Surgical Psychological Evaluations in California
You were told you need a psychological evaluation before your surgery can move forward. Maybe you expected it, or maybe it caught you off guard. Either way, you are probably wondering what it involves, how long it takes, and whether anything you say could affect your surgical approval.
Pre-surgical psychological evaluations assess emotional readiness, expectations, and post-operative planning to support the best possible outcome. I offer these evaluations as a licensed clinical psychologist in California, with teletherapy available for California residents and in-person appointments available for psychological testing. Screener costs start at $100, with comprehensive evaluations beginning at $200.
What a Pre-Surgical Evaluation Actually Involves
The evaluation is not a test you pass or fail. It is a structured conversation designed to understand where you are emotionally, what you are hoping for, and what kind of support might help you recover well.
Many people approaching a required screening have never had this kind of assessment before, and understanding what happens during a psychological evaluation can make the process feel considerably less uncertain.
The goal is not to find a reason to stop your surgery. It is to make sure you have the information and support you need going in.
Surgeries That Commonly Require This Evaluation
Pre-surgical screenings are required for a range of procedures. I offer evaluations for:
Bariatric surgery
Cosmetic procedures
Spinal cord stimulator implantation
Organ transplant
Gender-affirming surgery
IVF procedures
If your procedure is not listed here, it is worth reaching out. Requirements vary by provider and procedure, and I can help clarify what your surgical team is looking for.
Pre-surgical evaluations are one component of a broader range of psychological evaluations offered for adults and teens, including ADHD assessments and neuropsychological testing.
What This Process Looks Like With Me
I work with adults and teens 13 and older across California. My approach is warm and collaborative. You are not sitting across from someone looking for problems. You are talking with someone who wants to understand your experience and help you move forward.
Sessions are available via teletherapy for California residents, which means you can complete most of the process from home. For evaluations requiring in-person components, those appointments are available as well.
I am not in network with insurance providers, but I can provide documentation to support out-of-network reimbursement. I recommend contacting your insurance company directly to confirm your coverage before your evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the evaluation affect whether I can have my surgery?
The evaluation gives your surgical team information, not a verdict. The purpose is to identify any areas where additional support might help you prepare, not to disqualify you from a procedure you have been working toward. Most people who complete a pre-surgical screening move forward with their surgery.
What if I am anxious about what to say or how to answer?
Say what is true for you. There are no right answers designed to clear a threshold. The evaluation works best when it reflects your actual experience, concerns, and expectations. Honesty gives your care team the clearest picture of how to support you well.
How far in advance should I schedule the evaluation?
As early as you can. If your surgery is approaching and you need an evaluation completed within a specific timeframe, reaching out early to schedule a consultation gives us the best opportunity to work within your timeline.
Taking the Next Step
If you have questions before scheduling, I offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation. You can reach me by email at dramymjohansson@gmail.com or by phone at (805) 232-4179. When you are ready, schedule a consultation and we will take it from there.