Account
Who are Genetic Counsellors?
Genetic Counsellors are healthcare professionals specialising in counselling, education, support and advocacy for individuals and families impacted by genetic conditions.
Reasons to see a Genetic Counsellor:
There are many reasons why you may choose to see a Genetic Counsellor including:
- Planning a pregnancy
- Family history of a genetic health condition
- Concerns related to your child’s health and development
- Concern for increased risk of family related cancers
- Positive genetic test results
What do Genetic Counsellors do?
Genetic Counsellors are professionals who help people understand genetic information and how it affects their health. They can work directly with patients or in different fields like analysing reports for testing companies, doing research, teaching, or making policies.
When they work in clinics or hospitals, they talk with doctors and healthcare teams to help patients. They might offer general advice or focus on specific areas like family planning, children's health, cancer, or neurological conditions.
Misconceptions about Genetic Counsellors:
- You don't need to have had genetic testing to see a Genetic Counsellor. They assist in deciding which tests might be helpful and explain your options without pushing you to do anything.
- Genetic Counsellors aren't licensed therapists. They support patients through tough times, discussing genetic testing choices and treatment paths, but they're not psychologists.
- Genetic Counsellors don't tell you not to have kids. Their main job is to give information, making complex genetic details easier to understand. They empower you to make informed choices about your healthcare, providing guidance when you need it.
Genetic Counsellors help people understand genetic information and make choices about their health without pushing any particular decision on them.
