What is Genetic Counseling?

Genetic testing has become a powerful tool in healthcare. It can now lead to targeted diagnosis, treatment, or future risk assessment for thousands of medical conditions. The field is rapidly changing and without a specialization in medical genetics, it is impossible to stay up-to-date on the latest changes in this constantly growing area of healthcare. 

Most medical professionals receive only very basic training in clinical genetics and rely on genetic counselors for guidance. As genetics is the future of personalized medicine, healthcare teams are increasingly turning to genetic counselors to interpret testing results, evaluate risk factors, and provide up-to-date recommendations for their patients. 

Genetic counselors are board certified healthcare providers who stay up-to-date on the latest research and recommendations in genetics and genetic testing, translate complex information to patients, communicate with healthcare teams, and are trained to deliver this information in the most ethical way for the patients and their families.

The results of genetic testing can have a profound impact on individuals and families. Thus, a thoughtful and individualized approach to the process of genetic testing is required. Genetic counseling is a vital part of this process.

Concierge Genetic Counseling

Dena encourages everyone to seek genetic counseling before undergoing any genetic testing. You may go the traditional route by seeing a provider at a medical center or through telemedicine. At Malibu Genetics Concierge our appointments are longer and involve a more in-depth review of your history. With Dena’s knowledge of the most cutting edge testing available, and her connections to a vast network of experts, she can guide you to those tests that will most meet your needs.