Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Evaluation
At Fortified Souls, we understand the profound impact that an emotional support animal (ESA) can have on your mental well-being. We’re here to assist you in navigating the process of obtaining an emotional support animal letter.
ESA evaluations are performed by Amber Rechichar, LPC, a Pennsylvania-licensed clinician on our team. A real licensed professional will help you from start to finish.
Emotional support animals provide comfort and companionship to individuals facing emotional or psychological challenges. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specialized training to perform specific tasks. Instead, their primary role is to offer emotional support — helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health conditions.
Our office offers a comprehensive evaluation process to determine if you qualify for an ESA letter.
How It Works:
- Personalized Telehealth Assessment: We conduct a thorough, HIPAA-secure assessment of your mental health history and current challenges to understand your needs.
- Clinical Guidance: Our licensed therapist will provide insights and recommendations tailored to your situation, ensuring you feel supported throughout the process, and determine whether you meet the clinical criteria for an emotional support animal.
- Official ESA Letter: If you’re determined eligible, we will issue a formal emotional support animal letter, which can be used to inform landlords and housing authorities of your need for an ESA.
ESA Evaluation: Self-Pay
$140 evaluation
+ $50 documentation fee (only charged if you’re clinically determined eligible)
$190*
*Total only if a letter is issued; otherwise the cost is the $140 evaluation. Health insurance does not cover ESA evaluations, so this service is always self-pay.
Why Choose Us?
- A licensed Pennsylvania clinician: your evaluation is conducted by Amber Rechichar, LPC, who has specialized experience in mental health and support animal services. Not an anonymous online form.
- Compassionate Care: We prioritize your well-being, providing a safe and supportive environment for your evaluation.
- Confidential Services: We respect your privacy and ensure that all assessments and communications are handled with the utmost confidentiality.
At Fortified Souls, we are committed to helping you find the support you need for a happier, healthier life with your emotional support animal. If you believe that an emotional support animal could enhance your quality of life, we invite you to reach out to us.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about our counseling services, contact us today!
What Our Clients Say:
See the latest testimonials from Fortified Souls clients here.
Want to leave us a review? Great! We genuinely value your feedback, and will never publish or use any private health information (including last names). We encourage you to leave a first name or anonymous feedback only.
Jenna, Google
I’ve spent time with a couple of counselors on Emily’s team at Fortified Souls over the last 5 years. Although I didn’t feel like the first was a match for me, I kept going and tried another counselor who turned out to be perfect. Amber is absolutely wonderful and has helped me immensely in the 3-4 years I’ve been seeing her. Truly could not recommend this practice enough.
Lindsay, Google
Emily and team are wonderful clinicians with the sole focus of helping each client who is under their care. You cannot go wrong with anyone there!
Cherie, Google
Emily and her team are consistent with care and communication to help clients work towards positive outcomes. The practice is committed to the quality of client care in all aspects!
Fortified Souls Client (anonymous)
It was hard finding the right person to talk to. There are so many therapists out there, but Emily made me feel instantly safe and I couldn’t be happier with my choice.
Fortified Souls Client (anonymous)
I’ve been working with Emily for almost a year and I’m so proud of where I am now. I’ve learned so many new skills that helped my confidence, made my day to day easier, and made my relationships better. Having her in your corner is just amazing.
Fortified Souls Client (anonymous)
She was there for me when I needed advice and she was there for me when I just needed someone to listen. That’s all I could ask for.
Fortified Souls Client (anonymous)
I’ve been seeing my counselor for the past year and have made a lot of progress. I’m very happy with my counseling experience so far.
Our Specialties
Embarking on the journey of mental health counseling during a significant life change can be a transformative experience.
As you face challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, or substance misuse, the compassionate support of a skilled therapist can provide the guidance and understanding needed to overcome adversity. Fortified Souls is here to help you navigate these turbulent times, empowering you to rediscover your inner strength, resilience, and a sense of balance.
Don't face life's transitions alone; let us stand by your side and together, we'll turn these moments into opportunities for personal growth and emotional healing.
Depression
Anxiety
Grief and Loss
Chronic Illness
Mood disorders
Trauma related disorders
Substance use disorders
Recent Posts
Check out the Fortified Souls blog to get informed on mental health care topics you care about.