Genetic Counseling

Genetic counseling is the first step for anyone thinking about having genetic testing. The caring and knowledgeable counselors at Invision Sally Jobe provide support and information as you navigate the complex world of genetics and make decisions about your future. They offer genetic counseling at their offices at Denver Tech Center in Greenwood Village, Colorado. To learn more or schedule a genetic counseling appointment, call the Invision Sally Jobe Patient Access Team at 720-493-3700 today. 

What is genetic counseling?

Genetic counseling is a service you receive before and after genetic testing. Before testing, your counselor determines your risk of carrying the genes for an inherited disease, explains genetic testing, and helps you decide if you want to move forward.

After genetic testing, your counselor explains the results and how they can help guide your decisions or treat an existing disease.

You may be prepared for the results because you have a strong family history of an inherited condition. At the same time, learning you have a genetic issue opens the door to often difficult decisions.

Your compassionate counselor supports you and provides the information needed to make the best choice for you and your family.

When would I need genetic counseling?

You need counseling any time you’re considering genetic testing. You may want testing to learn your risk of developing a disease or if you might pass an inherited condition to your child. Or you may decide to have genetic testing during your pregnancy if an ultrasound or blood test reveals a potential risk to your baby.

There are too many inherited diseases and disorders to provide a comprehensive list; however, a few examples include:

• Cystic fibrosis
• Sickle cell disease
• Muscular dystrophy
• Down syndrome
• Congenital disabilities
• Heart disease
• Hemophilia
• Hereditary colon cancer
• Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) syndrome
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Familial hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol)

Your risk of getting the disease is high if you carry the genes for certain conditions. Other conditions run in families, but that doesn’t mean you or your children will end up with the same problem.

Whether or not some diseases develop depends on variables like which parent carries the gene, the specific genetic alteration, and your lifestyle (diet, exercise, and exposure to toxins).

Genetic counseling is essential to help you sort through all variables.

What happens during genetic counseling?

Your genetic counselor discusses your immediate concerns and reviews your family history and personal medical history. Based on the information you provide, they evaluate your risk of carrying an inherited genetic condition.

They also offer guidance on the testing available and how the information you obtain may support your health care needs.

Call Invision Sally Jobe at 720-493-3700 to schedule a genetic counseling appointment today.