Cultural Competence
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Use the preferred term “intellectual disabilities” and explain its meaning with your clients, without labeling or stigmatizing the client. Assess and incorporate the client’s unique abilities, rather than her limitations.
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Seek guidance from colleagues in genetics and other specialties with more experience working with clients with intellectual disabilities.
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Be aware of your biases and limitations. If you are not confident in your ability to work with individuals with intellectual disabilities in a respectful and meaningful manner, refer the patient to a colleague who is. Keep learning.
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Ask about the client’s competence to provide informed consent before the session. Involve caregivers, guardians, and the family as appropriate.
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Obtain as much information as possible about the client’s history before the session.
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Decide what information is essential to communicate. Use simple terminology accentuated by visual aids. Check for acceptance of your educational strategies and modify your communications as needed.
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Focus the counseling session on the client’s concerns and abilities.
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Consider changes that can be made at your workplace (including location and financial issues) to provide equal access and delivery of genetic services for individuals with intellectual disabilities.