Who Should Be Present During the Genetic Counseling Session?
If Tracey had the opportunity to decide, who should she ask to attend the genetic counseling session?
It is helpful to involve all people in Mary’s support network in the counseling process. By talking to the social worker, Mary and Mary’s mother, the genetic counselor should determine who has been a source of support for Mary in the past and at present. The genetic counselor should explore whether Mary’s sphere of available support is adequate and broad enough to assist her in the challenges that lie ahead. Family members may have negative reactions and questions about the prospect of a woman with disabilities managing care of her baby (Smeltzer, 2007). Therefore, the genetic counselor may also want to spend some time with Mary alone. This client-centered approach may help the genetic counselor get a better idea of Mary’s needs and give her an opportunity to share her concerns directly, without interested others speaking for her. The genetic counselor might ask Mary the following questions, either by herself, or in the presence of support persons, depending on what seemed most appropriate.
- What do you think about having a baby?
- What do you think you’ll have to do to take care of the baby?
- Who will help you take care of the baby?
- Tell me about your friends. What do you do with your friends?
- Who do you talk to when you are happy?
- Who do you talk to when you are sad?
- Who do you talk to when you don’t know what to do?
