Women are referred to genetic counselors for a variety of reasons including family history of a genetic disease, abnormal maternal serum screening (tests for chromosome abnormalities and open spine defects), and advanced maternal age (35 and older). The genetic counselors at the University of Michigan Perinatal Assessment Center (PAC) are part teacher, part counselor. In addition to providing women with all the available information about testing and options, the genetic counselors also help women sort through complex factors like religious and family beliefs in the decision-making process.

Patients are often surprised that the counselors don’t give women specific instructions. “Some people expect us to make recommendations regarding testing options or management of the pregnancy, when our real objective is to educate patients so they can make those decisions for themselves,” says Carrie Couyoumjian, Genetic Counselor, PAC.

Kathleen Hanlon-Lundberg, M.D., Director of the PAC, says the genetic counselors are an “integral part” of the PAC. “The genetic counselors are excellent and dedicated,” she says. “They are very adept at researching clinical problems.” The genetic counselors research the diseases, the testing, where the testing is available, and the likely outcomes and options, so they can present all the available information to patients.