Genetic Counseling Mock Session

See if you can identify the following typical elements of a genetic counseling session:

Contracting – At the beginning of the genetic counseling session, the genetic counselor inquires about the patient’s reason for referral and lays out the structure and content of the session.

Medical History – Review of the patient’s past medical history including hospitalizations, major medical illnesses, and surgeries.  In addition, the genetic counselor may ask age appropriate developmental questions.

Family History (Pedigree) – A detailed compilation of information about the physical and mental health of a patient’s family.  An essential part of the genetic counseling process, the family history provides a basis for making a diagnosis, determining risk, and assessing the needs for patient education and psychosocial support.

Risk Assessment – Based on information obtained during the session, the genetic counselor may be able to provide an assessment of the patient’s future reproductive or personal health risks.

Testing Options – In situations in which a genetic basis is suspected, there may be genetic testing available that the genetic counselor can discuss with the patient.

Psychosocial Support and Counseling – As patients may be presented with personal or family health or reproductive risks during the session, strong emotions may be generated.  The genetic counselor helps patients cope with these emotions and may offer further resources assist the patient.

*Element descriptions adapted from Diane Baker’s A Guide to Genetic Counseling