Genetic counselors are professionals who give information and support to people with genetics-related health concerns. Genetic counselors can come from many different backgrounds, such as medicine, nursing, or social work. They are usually trained at post-graduate level, and will often be part of a wider healthcare team.
Reasons for Seeing a Genetic Counselor
Genetic counselors work with both children and adults, and may see people in couples, or sometimes entire families. The following list includes some possible scenarios where genetic counseling is an option:
- A person is concerned that he or she may have a genetic disorder.
- A person is already diagnosed with a genetic disorder.
- A person is pregnant or planning a pregnancy, and is concerned about the child having a genetic disorder.
- A couple are blood-related, and considering having children.
What Happens in a Genetic Counseling Session?
Genetic counseling sessions will vary because individual situations vary. Depending on the circumstances, the genetic counselor will probably take a family health history, which will help them work out any risks. If appropriate, they may also advise on available genetic testing.
If the person has (or later gets) a diagnosis of a genetic disorder, the genetic counselor may be able to offer the person information on the disorder, including treatment options. They can also explain the risks of passing on a genetic disorder.
Counseling sessions usually take place in hospitals, though sometimes a consultation will be conducted over the phone. The number of sessions required will depend on the circumstances. Before the session, the person or persons seeking genetic counseling may be asked to find out about their family’s medical history.
What Genetic Counseling Isn’t
Genetic counselors cannot lead people to make decisions. For example, the genetic counselor cannot advise a person to get a genetic test, nor can they advise a person to begin or end a pregnancy. Genetic counselors offer information and support, and it is up to the individual to make their own choices.
Genetic counseling also tends to be a short-term service. Some people will consider long-term psychological support, and the genetic counselor will be able to advise them about organizations that offer such services. Genetic counselors are usually not medical doctors, and so will also refer people on for medical treatment.
More Information and Finding a Genetic Counselor
Read Understanding Genetic Consultation and Understanding Genetic Testing in Healthcare for more details of what happens in genetic counseling sessions. For more information preparing for genetic counseling, including how to find a counselor, visit the National Society of Genetic Counselors website.
Sources
Genetic Counselling, The Wellcome Trust website, published: 14th March 2009, accessed: 3rd August 2009, author: Deirdre Janson-Smith.
Genetic Counseling, U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science, updated: 29th September 2008, accessed: 3rd August 2009, author: Meghan E. Carey.
What is Genetic Counseling?, Genetic Health website, updated: 4th December 2003, accessed: 5th August 2009, author: Amy Adams.
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