#311 Mock Cancer Genetic Counseling Session

We're excited to announce the launch of our new Mock Genetic Counseling Session series! In our first installment, genetic counselor Catherine Mayo and student Ariel Modeste perform a mock cancer genetic counseling session, offering insight into how genetic testing for cancer risks is discussed with patients. This session was recorded in person, providing a more dynamic and engaging learning experience therefore, we highly recommend watching it on YouTube to fully immerse yourself in the interaction. 

We hope this series is helpful for prospective and current genetic counseling students, as well as the general public, by demystifying the genetic counseling process. Understanding how these sessions work can empower individuals and provide valuable educational insights into this critical healthcare service.

Catherine Mayo (she/her), is a Genomic Science Liaison at a genetic testing company. She is a board-certified genetic counselor interested in rare diseases, increased access to genetics services, and social justice in healthcare. She has previous experience in biotechnology and drug development in the Bay Area.

Check out Catherine’s two other appearances on DNA Today. In Episode #110 we chatted about the film Gattaca, mostly how much technology in the film is no longer fiction. We recorded this when we were roommates in grad school together and are members of Sarah Lawrence’s Class of 2020. Catherine more recently shared insight in Episode #259, which was a recap and reflection on the 2023 National Society of Genetic Counselors’ (NSGC) Annual Conference. 

Ariel Modeste (she/her) is currently in her second and final year in the Human Genetics Program at Sarah Lawrence College training to be a genetic counselor. Ariel is a graduate of LaGrange College with a B.S. in Biology and a double minor in psychological science and chemistry. The premise of this mock case was Ariel’s work as part of her internship with DNA Today. 

Specialty: Cancer

Indication: A 26-year-old unaffected female is seen due to a family history of cancer.

Patient Name: Estelle Woods

Outline:

• Contracting 

1. Introduction to each other

2. Why were they referred to genetic counseling?

3. Explain what the session will entail

4. Ask if patient has any questions

• Medical Intake

• Family History 

1. Take a pedigree

• Patient Education

1. The purpose of all the questions that were asked

2. Genetics overview

3. Hereditary cancer risk factors and signs

• Risk Assessment 

1. Review the patient’s pedigree and explain what is suspicious and what isn’t and why. 

2. What you would test for in the patient

3. Who the best person in the family is to be tested 

• Decision Making

1. Explain genetic testing

2. Explain the 3 possible results

1. Explain what each result would mean for the individual and their family members

3. Ask patient if they would like to pursue the genetic testing

• Insurance and cost

1. NCCN criteria

2. Potential insurance coverage

3. Cash option without insurance 

4. GINA

• Consenting

1. Signing consent forms

• Results

1. Turn around time

2. How results are provided

• Recap information and final questions

Stay tuned for the continuation of our mock genetic counseling session series! Over the next year we will be bringing you more mock sessions inspired by a cumulation of cases. 

Please note that the information provided in this mock genetic counseling session is intended strictly for educational purposes and should not be used for personal medical decision-making. If you have questions or concerns about your health, we encourage you to consult directly with a certified genetic counselor who can provide tailored medical recommendations. If you are in the United States, you can find a genetic counselor near you by visiting FindAGeneticCounselor.com. 

Stay tuned for the next new episode of DNA Today next Friday! New episodes are released every Friday. In the meantime, you can binge over 300 other episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, streaming on the website, or any other podcast player by searching, “DNA Today”. Episodes since 2021 are also recorded with video which you can watch on our YouTube channel, this includes some episodes recorded at NBC Universal Stamford Studios. 

DNA Today is hosted and produced by Kira Dineen. Our video lead is Amanda Andreoli. Our social media lead is Kajal Patel. Our Outreach Intern is Liv Davidson. And our logo Graphic Designer is Ashlyn Enokian, MS, CGC.