Genetic counselors are medical professionals with specialized training in genetics and genetic disease.
Genetic counseling is the process by which individuals at risk for a disorder are educated regarding the
consequences of the condition, the chances that they or their children will develop or transmit the condition, and
ways in which the condition can be prevented, avoided or managed.
Genetic counseling is provided by Board certified genetic counselors for prenatal diagnosis, family planning,
interpretation of test results, and other supportive services. Genetic counseling helps alleviate the anxiety which
patients may feel, by providing accurate information regarding their genetic concerns and offering them support and
guidance in a non-directive manner.
In a genetic counseling session, the potential need for carrier testing and the risks and benefits of PGD, amniocentesis,
CVS, and other genetic tests are discussed. Interpretation of test results and accuracy are addressed and the patient's
genetic family history and individual concerns are examined. If the result of prenatal testing is abnormal, meeting with
a genetic counselor can offer the patient professional guidance and support during a difficult time. The counselor's genetic
expertise enables him/her to make proper referrals, arrange appropriate testing, and offer a wide variety of resources to their patients.
For learn more about Genetic Counseling at RGI, please send us an online inquiry, so we can learn more about you and your situation.