Genetic Counselors
What do we do? Heading link
Genetic counseling is the process of helping people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease. This process integrates the following:
- Interpretation of family and medical histories to assess the chance of disease occurrence or recurrence.
- Education about inheritance, testing, management, prevention, resources and research.
- Counseling to promote informed choices and adaptation to the risk or condition.
Genetic counselors are Masters trained health professionals. We are licensed by the State of Illinois and certified by the American Board of Genetic Counselors.
Genetic counselors are available to speak to patients for various reasons. At your reproductive genetic counseling visit, we will collect you and your partner’s personal and family health history to provide information regarding potential risks for birth defects and other possible genetic conditions. Based on the information collected, we will also discuss potential genetic screening and diagnostic testing options that are available to you. Some common reasons why you might meet with a genetic counselor include a personal or family history of birth defects, intellectually disability, known genetic disorders, or to discuss different prenatal genetic testing options or carrier screening.
Appointments Heading link
Appointments are by referral from a physician. For appointment information, call Brenda Ortiz.
