What is a Genetic Counseling?
Genetic Counseling is a professional assessment of an individual's risk factors regarding a family history or pregnancy. The goal of Genetic Counseling is not only risk assessment but also to explain the cause and or inheritance pattern of a particular disorder; and the availability of testing including the benefits and limitations. Genetic Counseling involves interpretation of complex medical information in addition to the emotional support of an individual or family.
What is a Genetic Counselor?
All of the Genetic Counselors at Stony Brook Medicine have a minimum of a Masters Degree in Genetic Counseling. This involves extensive training in both human genetics and psychology. In addition, all of the Genetic Counselors at Stony Brook Medicine are either board certified or board eligible by either the American Board of Medical genetics or the American Board of Genetic Counseling.