Genetic Counseling
The goal of genetic counseling is to help you learn about genetic conditions and how they might affect you. Genetic counseling might help confirm a genetic diagnosis and guide your medical care. The information you learn may also be important for your close relatives.
Who provides genetic counseling?
Genetic counseling is provided by genetic counselors and medical geneticists, who often work together as a team.
Genetic counselors are health care providers who are trained in human genetics and genetic diseases. They estimate genetic risk and provide support to families with genetic conditions. Genetic counselors are certified by the American Board of Genetic Counselors and licensed in the State of California. Click here to learn more about genetic counselors.
Medical Geneticists are doctors with extra training in human genetics and genetic diseases. They diagnose rare genetic conditions and recommend medical care for these conditions. They are certified by the American Board of Medical Genetics and licensed in the State of California.
How do I get a genetic counseling appointment?
Your doctor or nurse practitioner may refer you for genetic counseling. You can also call the Genetics department and ask for an appointment. There are six Kaiser Permanente Genetics Departments in Northern California.
Why would I be offered genetic counseling?
You may be offered genetic counseling for many different reasons. Here are some common ones:
During pregnancy:
You want a CVS or amniocentesis. - You learn you are a genetic carrier.
- Testing shows a high risk for a genetic condition in the baby.
- An ultrasound exam finds a birth defect.
- You have a family history of birth defects, inherited conditions, or intellectual disability.
Before pregnancy
You and your partner are carriers for the same genetic disease. - You and your partner have had several pregnancy losses.
- You and your partner are close blood relatives (like first cousins).
At birth or during childhood:
Your pediatrician suspects a genetic condition. - You have a family history of a genetic condition that affects children.
- Your child is born with birth defects.
- Newborn screening shows a high risk for a genetic condition.
- Your child is growing slowly or has slow development.
In adults:
Your doctor suspects a genetic condition.- You have a family history of a genetic condition that affects adults.
What to expect during a genetic counseling appointment.
Your genetic counseling appointment could be by phone, video, or in-person. During the visit, you can expect the genetic counselor to:
- Ask about your family history and your ancestry.
- Talk about how conditions run in a family.
- Estimate the risk for a genetic condition.
- Provide emotional support.
Last reviewed: January 28, 2021
Reviewed by: Kimberly Barr, MS, LCGC