Case Preparation

Case:

Tracey is a genetic counselor working in a Children’s Hospital that provides comprehensive genetic services.  At the end of the week, Tracey received a phone call from a community social worker about her client, Mary, who receives services from local agencies supporting individuals with intellectual disability.  Mary is 19 years old and she has an appointment for genetic counseling early next week.  The social worker stated that the reason for referral is that Mary is pregnant and Mary’s mother is concerned that the baby will be born with developmental disabilities.  The social worker explains that Mary is “mildly mentally retarded.”  Mary will be accompanied to the genetic counseling appointment by her mother.

Personal Reflections

What are your first instincts about this case?

Have you ever handled a genetic counseling session like this?

 

Perspectives

As the genetic counselor, what thoughts and emotions might Tracey be thinking and feeling about this situation?

What thoughts and emotions might the social worker be thinking and feeling about this scenario?

What thoughts and emotions might Mary’s mother be thinking and feeling about this situation?

What thoughts and emotions might Mary be thinking and feeling?

How do the perspectives of the individuals involved in this case overlap? How are the various perspectives unique?

How do you think these perspectives might impact the effectiveness of the genetic counseling session?

How do you think these potentially varied perspectives should impact Tracey’s preparation for the genetic counseling session?

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