If you have been referred for genetic counselling, you might be wondering what actually happens in the appointment. Will you need a blood test? Do you need to know your family history off by heart? Will you be told something you are not ready to hear? These are common questions, and knowing what to expect can make the experience far less daunting. Here is a step-by-step guide to a genetic counselling appointment at Rosalind Genetics.
Step 1: Before your appointment
Most people are referred by their GP or a specialist, such as an oncologist, neurologist or obstetrician. You can also refer yourself; if you do, we’ll ask you to get a referral from your doctor before your appointment. All our appointments are held via telehealth, so you can see us from home, wherever you live in Australia. Beforehand, you may want to gather information about your health history. It helps to ask relatives about health conditions in the family and to gather any previous test results. Don’t worry if there are gaps; that’s completely normal.
Step 2: Understanding why you’re here
Your appointment begins with a conversation about what brought you to us and what you hope to get out of it. You might be worried about a family history of cancer, planning a pregnancy, or looking for answers about a diagnosis in your child. Your questions and concerns shape the rest of the session.
Step 3: Mapping your family history
Your genetic counsellor will draw a family tree, called a pedigree, usually covering at least three generations. We’ll ask about health conditions, ages at diagnosis and causes of death. Patterns in a family tree can tell us a lot about whether a condition may be inherited.
Step 4: Explaining the genetics
Next, your genetic counsellor will explain, in plain language, how the condition may be inherited and what that could mean for you and your relatives. You’ll leave with a clearer picture of your risk, whether that turns out to be higher, lower or similar to that of the general population.
Step 5: Deciding about genetic testing
If genetic testing could be helpful, we’ll talk through your options in detail: what the test can and can’t tell you, the possible results, how long they take, any costs, and what the results might mean for your family. We’ll also discuss practical issues, such as life insurance (you can read more in our post on the moratorium on genetic testing and insurance).
Genetic counselling doesn’t mean you have to have a test. The decision is always yours, and some people take time to think it over or decide not to test at all. If you go ahead, testing usually involves a simple blood or saliva sample.
Step 6: Results and follow-up
When your results are ready, we’ll arrange a follow-up appointment to explain them, answer your questions and talk about next steps. These might include extra screening, referral to another specialist, or information to share with relatives who may also benefit from testing. We’ll also send a summary letter to you and your referring doctor.
Support every step of the way
Throughout the process, your feelings matter as much as the facts. Genetic information can bring up worry, guilt or relief, sometimes all at once. Making space for those conversations is a core part of what genetic counsellors do.
How Rosalind Genetics can help
At Rosalind Genetics, our genetic counsellors support individuals and families across Australia via telehealth, with clear information and compassionate care. If you’re wondering whether genetic counselling is right for you, talk to your GP or get in touch with our team.
