Who am I?

My name is Megan Trinkle-Knotts, MS, CGC and I am a certified genetic counselor with nearly 20 years of clinical experience. I started my own private practice (MKGenetix) with the same goal as many genetic counselors – to improve patient access to genetic counseling services by eliminating the need for physician referrals. I am also the Program Director at the Bay Path University Genetic Counseling Training Program.

GC Clinic Finder, is a way to connect, search and find genetic counseling services that meet our patients’ needs. With a focus on private practices, we ensure patients can quickly find, compare, and connect with experienced genetic counselors who offer direct care.

Why We Started This Resource?

Many patients struggle to access genetic counseling due to complex healthcare systems and referral requirements. Our goal is to simplify the process, ensuring that anyone seeking genetic expertise can find the right provider.

How Clinics Are Selected?

We list private genetic counseling practices that accept direct patient referrals. Clinics must utilize a genetic counselor that is certified through the American Board of Genetic Counselors (ABGC) to be included in our directory. This is critical step to ensure you are receiving quality care.

Meeting with a certified genetic counseling (CGC®) ensures that you are meeting with someone that has met the established standards for professional practice through documentation of specialized training and who receive a passing score on the ABGC Certification Examination.

What is Genetic Counseling?

Genetic counseling is a process that involves a trained healthcare professional, known as a genetic counselor, who provides information, support, and guidance to individuals and families about genetic conditions. The goal is to help someone understand and adapt to the medical, psychological, and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease.

Who are Genetic Counselors?

Genetic counselors are healthcare professionals with specialized training in medical genetics and counseling. They have a master’s degrees in genetic counseling and are skilled in interpreting genetic test results, assessing risk, and providing education and support to patients and their families.

What Does a Genetic Counselor Do?

A genetic counselor:

Reviews family and medical histories to assess the likelihood of genetic conditions.
Explains the inheritance patterns, potential chances, and implications of genetic conditions.
Discusses the options available for genetic testing and the potential outcomes.
Provides emotional support and counseling to help individuals and families cope with their concerns.

Helps patients understand their test results and make informed decisions about their health care and management.

Educates patients about preventive measures, treatment options, and available resources.

Individuals or families might seek genetic counseling for various reasons, including:

Why Might Someone Seek Genetic Counseling?

  • A personal or family history of a genetic condition, birth defect, or chromosome abnormality
    • Examples – cancer, Down syndrome, cleft lip/palate, heart defects, hypermobility, autism, etc.
  • Concerns about the risk of passing on a genetic condition to their children.
  • Abnormal results from preconception or prenatal screening tests.
    • Examples – carrier screening or non-invasive prenatal testing/screening (NIPT or NIPS), abnormal preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) etc.
  • Infertility or multiple miscarriages.
  • A diagnosis of a genetic condition in themselves or a family member.
    • Examples – Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome, neurofibromatosis, familial hypercholesterolemia, etc.
  • Concerns about genetic risks related to their ethnic background.
    • Examples – Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, French Canadian ancestry etc.

What Can I Expect During a Genetic Counseling Session?

During a genetic counseling session, you can expect:

  • A detailed discussion of your personal and family medical history.
  • An assessment of your chance for genetic conditions.
  • Information about genetic testing options, including the benefits, limitations, and potential outcomes.
  • Support in making decisions that are right for you and your family.
  • Counseling to help you understand and adapt to the results of genetic testing.

Is Genetic Counseling Confidential?

Yes, genetic counseling is confidential. Genetic counselors are committed to maintaining patient privacy and confidentiality in accordance with ethical guidelines and legal requirements. They will discuss with you how your information will be used and shared.

How Do I Prepare for a Genetic Counseling Appointment?

To prepare for a genetic counseling appointment, you should:

  • Gather information about your family’s medical history, including any known genetic conditions including any relevant medical records or test results
  • Prepare a list of questions or concerns you would like to discuss with the genetic counselor.

Is Genetic Counseling Covered by Insurance?

Many insurance plans cover genetic counseling, especially if it is recommended by a healthcare provider. However, each clinic is different so you’ll need to verify with the clinic that you schedule with about their policies. Most private practice genetic counselors listed here do not accept insurance at this time. However, you can typically request a detailed summary that you could potentially submit to your insurance provider for possible reimbursement for out-of-network services.

How Can Genetic Counseling Help Me?

Genetic counseling can help you by:

  • Providing a clearer understanding of your genetic risks and health.
  • Offering guidance on genetic testing and what the results may mean for you and your family.
  • Supporting you in making informed health care and lifestyle decisions.
  • Connecting you with resources and support networks for individuals with genetic conditions.