Genetic Counseling

What is it and why would I want it?

What is it?

Genetic testing has become a powerful tool in healthcare. It can now lead to targeted diagnosis, treatment, or future risk assessment for thousands of medical conditions. The field is rapidly changing and without a specialization in medical genetics, it is impossible to stay up-to-date on the latest changes in this constantly growing area of healthcare. 

Most medical professionals receive only very basic training in clinical genetics and rely on genetic counselors for guidance. As genetics is the future of personalized medicine, healthcare teams are increasingly turning to genetic counselors to interpret testing results, evaluate risk factors, and provide up-to-date recommendations for their patients. 

Genetic counselors are board certified healthcare providers who stay up-to-date on the latest research and recommendations in genetics and genetic testing, translate complex information to patients, communicate with healthcare teams, and are trained to deliver this information in the most ethical way for the patients and their families.

The results of genetic testing can have a profound impact on individuals and families. Thus, a thoughtful and individualized approach to the process of genetic testing is required. Genetic counseling is a vital part of this process.

How we’re different

Dena encourages everyone to seek genetic counseling before undergoing any genetic testing. You may go the traditional route by seeing a provider at a medical center or through telemedicine. At Malibu Genetics Concierge our appointments are longer and involve a more in-depth review of your history. With Dena’s knowledge of the most cutting edge testing available, and her connections to a vast network of experts, she can guide you to those tests that will most meet your needs.

Why seek genetic counseling and/or testing?

  • Family History of Disease

    No family is free of disease. Dena will help you understand the genetic and non-genetic contributions to diseases in your family.

  • At-Home Test Discussion

    While at-home genetic tests, such as 23andMe, are quite popular, they are not medical-grade tests. They do not use the same technology as medical-grade tests and are not comprehensive. Health decisions should not be made based on the findings of these tests. In fact, the disclaimer on the 23andMe website specifically states, “The test is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions”. 

    If you have taken one of these at-home tests and need guidance understanding the results or any subsequent raw data interpretation, Dena can provide assistance, with the caveat that any findings should be confirmed with a medical-grade test.

  • Preventative Genetics

    Many healthy individuals are unaware of their risk for future disease. We all know that diet and exercise are components of a healthy lifestyle, but identifying your personal risk for illness is just as important. Preventative Genetics uses a combination of genetic testing results and an analysis of other risk factors to determine additional steps you can take to improve your health now and in the future.

  • Adopted or No Family History Known

    Although family history is important in determining disease risk, we understand that this information is not always available. Nevertheless, genetic testing can still provide valuable insight. Dena will use whatever information you can provide to determine the most appropriate test for you.

Questions before getting started?
Book a free 15 minute consultation

Choosing Malibu Genetics Concierge provides you with more than merely genetic testing. Dena will be your guide on your genetic testing journey, providing information, guidance, and support, all of which will be seamlessly incorporated into your medical plan.