Certified genetic counselors are experts in medical genetics and counseling. A certified genetic counselor guides and supports individuals and families who are looking for information about how inherited conditions might affect them.

A certified genetic counselor has a Master’s degree from an accredited training program. Genetic Counseling programs teach:

• genetics
• how to assess risk in families
• communication
• counseling

A certified genetic counselor has passed a national exam from the American Board of Genetic Counseling.

What is Genetic Testing?

Genetic testing is a type of test that looks for abnormalities in your genes or DNA. Abnormalities and changes in your genes sometimes cause inherited conditions. Genetic testing may involve a blood draw, a cheek swab or a sample of spit. The results of genetic testing may affect you or your family members.

What would that mean for you?

• It could affect your health care
• It could affect the health care for your family
• It could affect your family planning