Genetic counselors are healthcare professionals with advanced training in medical genetics and counseling. The goal of genetic counseling is to support patients in understanding how inherited diseases might impact their health and their family.
Genetic counselors meet with individuals and families to discuss genetic risks based on family history, genetic risks for certain diseases or cancer, and whether genetic testing might be right for you. They also provide emotional and psychosocial support throughout information seeking and decision making.
Some of the possible reasons to see a genetic counselor may include pregnancy or family planning, a personal or family history of cancer or genetic disease, childhood genetic conditions, at-home genetic testing, or exploring your family history. To learn more about genetic counseling, visit the National Society of Genetic Counselors website.