What is genetic counseling?

Genetic counselors help you make decisions about your genetic health. Genetic counseling can help you understand how genes affect you and your family’s health and how to manage or treat diseases based on genetic test results.

What do genetic counselors do?

Genetic counselors are licensed healthcare professionals who have specialized education in medical genetics and counseling. Genetic counselors are specifically focused on helping people understand the complicated world of genetic information. They work with patients and healthcare providers to answer questions about genetic testing and to support treatment option discussions.

What you can expect

During a genetic counseling session, a genetic counselor may review your family history, explain genetic testing options along with benefits and limitations of testing, discuss your test results, and help you understand whether additional family members should be tested.

Genetic testing can be overwhelming, but can also provide a better understanding of your genetic health.

Your genetic counseling options

Your healthcare provider, in some cases, may offer genetic counseling as part of their pre- and/or post-genetic testing support. For situations where additional support is needed, GeneDx offers comprehensive genetic counseling services to GeneDx patients.

GeneDx can provide remote genetic counseling services with a referral from your healthcare provider. Pursuant to your health insurance requirements, pre-test counseling is available through GeneDx and our independent partners. Post-test genetic counseling, at no additional cost, is available for GeneDx patients.

GeneDx’s internal genetic counseling experts and our partners:

  • Offer flexible appointment times including evenings and weekends
  • Work collaboratively with your healthcare provider
  • Provide guidance and support for you and your family

Ready to speak with a genetic counselor today?
Talk with your healthcare provider to request a referral. Once received, you will be contacted to schedule an appointment.

Check out the National Society of Genetic Counselors website to learn how to track your family’s genetic results

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