How To Find An Online Genetic Counseling Service

Consumer genetic tests can tell you a lot about your health, nutrition, and wellness, but the results can also be complex. With so much data, it is easy to feel unsure about what to do next. If that sounds familiar, online genetic counseling can help you make sense of your results.

What is online genetic counseling?

Genetic counseling is a service that helps people understand their DNA results and what those results may mean for their health. It is provided by genetic counselors who are trained in both genetics and counseling.

Historically this happened in a clinical setting. Today it often happens remotely. Counselors still advise on topics such as genetic risk and predisposition to certain conditions in the context of your family history, but instead of requiring an in person visit, the conversation can take place online from home.

Why is online genetic counseling useful?

Most of us are not trained geneticists, so we often need help interpreting the large amount of data that comes with analyzing our DNA. A genetic counselor can help you understand that data and use it to make more informed health decisions.

Doing it online adds convenience. Anyone who has explored their DNA data knows it can become a rabbit hole, and you often want answers while the questions are fresh. Being able to connect with a counselor online means you can get guidance without waiting weeks for an appointment.

Our online genetic counseling app

Sequencing offers genetic counseling through an app in the Partner Marketplace, made by DNAVisit, that connects you with a genetic counselor to discuss your DNA results. Thanks to Sequencing's Universal Data Compatibility, the app works with genetic data from a wide range of companies and laboratories, including 23andMe, Ancestry, MyHeritage, Living DNA, and Helix, as well as exome and whole genome sequencing data. Your data is analyzed against scientific research to support the counselor's review.

How to get started

The first step is to upload your raw DNA data to Sequencing. Then purchase the Genetic Counseling app from DNAVisit in the Partner Marketplace. When you run the app, you select which DNA data file you want it to use. If you would like more than one file reviewed, you can run the app again and choose a different file each time.

Once you select a file, Sequencing securely transmits your genetic data to DNAVisit for analysis. DNAVisit then emails you instructions for accessing its secure, private chat, where you can discuss your DNA data with a licensed genetic counselor and get your questions answered, from home or on the go.

If you are ready to make sense of your DNA results, the Genetic Counseling app is a good place to start.