Methods of Genetic Counseling
Coping with Inherited Conditions Via Telephone or Online Therapists
Online genetic testing may be easier than going to a hospital, but it may not offer counseling afterwards. Here are three ways to cope with online medical test results.
If you live in a rural area or can’t afford to take time off from work to get in-person support with genetic testing, you may consider online genetic testing. Here’s how to cope with the medical test results without face-to-face counseling.
What Is Genetic Counseling?
Genetic counselors provide information and support to individuals and families who are struggling with birth defects or genetic disorders. Genetic counselors also identify individuals and families at risk for inherited medical conditions. Basically, genetic counselors help families and individuals cope with inherited medical conditions.
The Benefits of Genetic Counseling
Recent research from the Georgetown University Medical Center reveals the importance of genetic counseling in person. Study author Beth N. Peshkin is a senior genetics counselor at Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of Georgetown University Medical Center, and educational director of the Jess and Mildred Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research.
“The delivery of genetic test results for a disease like cancer can trigger a range of emotions and can be more distressful than anticipated – particularly when there's been no counseling and the results are ‘positive’,” says Peshkin. “While in-person genetic counseling is ideal, it's not convenient for people who live in rural areas or don't have access to an academic center.”
As more genes and inherited medical conditions are discovered, the need for genetic testing and counseling increases.
Coping with the Results of Genetic Tests
1. Consider telephone counseling. Consider calling a clinic or hospital that offers telephone counseling when you receive the results of genetic tests. Even if it’s not face-to- face counseling, you can ask specific questions and have your fears and concerns alleviated over the telephone. “Many of us favor face-to-face counseling but the reality is the telephone may allow us to reach more people, more efficiently,” says Peshkin. “It makes sense to develop interventions that parallel the traditional model while extending its reach and deliverability.”
2. Use the Internet wisely. If you’re searching online for genetic tests or information about inherited medical conditions, make sure the website is reputable. Hospitals, government organizations, medical institutions, and national institutes are good bets. Check their “links” page for the websites they recommend. WebMD and the National Institute of Health offer a great deal of sound medical information from doctors and other experts.
3. Consider online counseling. Some reputable counselors and organizations offer online counseling for everything from sleep disorders to genetic test results. To ensure that an online counselor is trustworthy, consider contacting the Better Business Bureau for complaints.
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Source for Genetic Counseling Information: Georgetown University Medical Center (2008, March 31). Genetic Counselors Turn To Unconventional Counseling To Meet Demand For Genetic Testing. ScienceDaily.
