WHAT IS GENETIC COUNSELLING?
Genetic counselling provides information and support to a wide range of individuals and families who are affected by, or at risk for a genetic disorder.
“Genetic counsellors help patients understand the science of genetics, it’s impact on an individual’s health and that of their family, and assist in navigating potentially difficult conversations and decisions”
– Patch & Middleton, 2018
GENETIC COUNSELLING
A healthcare service provided to help people understand the impact of genetics on their health
INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILY
Helping you understand the impact of genetics on your health and that of your family
HEALTH PRACTITIONERS AND BUSINESS/SERVICE PROVIDERS
Provide access to genetic counselling to enhance your service offering to your patients/clients
Forming part of a broader healthcare team, genetic counsellors assist with providing:
- Comprehensive personal and family risk assessments to identify inheritance patterns and the likelihood of a genetic condition
- Determining the chance of reoccurrence of a genetic condition in other family members or future generations
- Explaining complex information about genetic risks and diagnosis
- Facilitation and interpretation of genetic testing and screening. This includes access and information for national and international services
- Psychosocial support and exploring the impact of genetic conditions in relation to personal, familial, cultural and social contexts
- Referral to resources, support groups, genetic services, and relevant healthcare practitioners
is genetic counselling relevant to me?
Pregnancy and considering pregnancy
- Considering pregnancy
Couples wanting to learn about the risk of passing on a genetic condition to their children and possible reproductive testing options - Pregnancy
For individuals and couples who are pregnant who want to learn more about prenatal genetic screening and testing, or where a genetic risk has been identified
GENETIC CONDITIONS AND HEALTH SCREENING
- Genetic Conditions in Individuals
For individuals with a personal diagnosis of a genetic condition to better understand their condition, genetic testing options, and to receive support through a management and referral network. This includes prenatal, paediatric and adult cases - Genetic Conditions within a Family
For individuals with a family diagnosis of a genetic condition to better understand their risks and to make informed decisions about family planning and preventative options - Proactive Health Screening
For individuals interested in proactive health screening or personalised medicine wanting more information prior to genetic testing, or assistance with interpretation of their genetic results - Risk for Hereditary Cancers
Individuals with a personal or family history of certain cancers such as breast, ovarian, prostate and colorectal cancers, or who were diagnosed with cancer at a young age (<50 years of age). Genetic counselling can assist with identifying a possible genetic cause, information on increased screening and preventative surgeries, as well as risk assessments for other family members
