Genetic Counseling
Genetic counseling aims to understand your risk for certain genetic disorders and the testing options available to assess that risk. Genetic counselors work to educate about testing options, inheritance, and family histories, as well as to identify resources and research. In addition, genetic counseling promotes informed, individual choices that align with a person's ethics, beliefs, and values.
The Process
During your prenatal or preconception appointment, we'll discuss the testing options available based on your ethnicity, family history, and pregnancy history. I'll inform you of the screening and diagnostic tests available during pregnancy to assess for Down Syndrome and other chromosomal disorders. We will also cover population and ethnicity-based screenings, such as carrier screening for diseases such as cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy, and other recessive conditions. Discussing your family history will also focus on conditions or traits you may be concerned about.
Services
Prenatal counseling
All prenatal genetic testing is optional, but how do you know if these options suit you and your family?
Arbor provides individualized genetic counseling focused on determining which, if any, prenatal testing is right for you. You'll learn what these tests can and cannot reveal, while we determine how these options fit into your ethics and desires.
Part of our discussion includes the implications and considerations of COVID-19 infections and the COVID-19 vaccine. We will discuss relevant research as well as answer questions you may have so you feel comfortable and accurately informed.
Through a personalized decision-making process, Arbor will help determine which screening or testing strategy is right for you, even if that means no screening at all.
Counseling for Home DNA Testing results
Your 23andMe or Ancestry results are in... but what does this all mean?
Are the "protective variants" truly protective?
Are there other actions I should be taking?
Am I really "low risk" for the diseases tested for?
23andMe and Ancestry testing are not diagnostic, and it’s possible you were not fully tested for the conditions you’re most worried about.
If lingering questions exist, I can help you understand your results and determine if there is more to do in an independent, honest way.
Reproductive: Fertility & Preconception
Some genetic testing, such as carrier screening, is best performed before pregnancy. If you’re ready to start your family but want to be sure you’re fully prepared, Arbor can help facilitate testing and determine if there are any other considerations before you start.
In the same sphere, maybe your path to a family includes a fertility clinic. Arbor can discuss options for PGD (preimplantation genetic diagnosis) or PGS (prenatal genetic screening). Understanding what these options are will let you know if they are right for you or not.
Donor Screening/LGBTQ+
There are many ways to make a family, and if you’re considering using a donor to make yours, finding the right one can be daunting.
Arbor can facilitate choosing a donor by analyzing a prospective donor’s family history and coordinating genetic carrier screening. These services are beneficial for families using known donors or home insemination. You can feel confident you’ve chosen well by obtaining a complete family history. Arbor is LGBTQ+-friendly and supportive of all ways to create a family.
Janine Gessner Mash, LCGC
Janine Gessner Mash has been a certified and licensed genetic counselor for nearly 15 years, specializing in preconception and prenatal counseling.
Trained at the University of Colorado - Denver, Janine obtained an extensive background in laboratory testing before moving on to clinical work at Natera, UCSF, and Stanford.
On a personal level, Janine is a mother of four daughters. She is an advocate of evidence-based medicine and strongly believes everyone has the right to give birth where they feel most comfortable while supported by providers with their best interests at heart.
Janine is licensed by the State of California and certified by the American Board of Genetic Counselors
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May 2019
Arbor Genetic Counseling (formerly San Francisco Genetic Counseling)
enters agreement with
The Sperm Bank of California
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Rates
$325 for the initial session*,
$85 per follow-up session, if needed
Donor screening: an additional $85 for each prospective donor*
A session includes one 60-minute consult, referrals for desired testing, a plan for results, a written summary of the communication provided, and an additional 2 weeks of free email contact.
Fees are due at the point of service.
A $55 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking.
If your insurance covers genetic counseling, reimbursement can be pursued directly though your insurer.
*Need based rates may be available on a case by case basis.
Location
Arbor Genetic Counseling
Arbor Genetic Counseling
19 South B Street, Suite 7
San Mateo, CA 94401
Virtual or In-Person appointments are available.
Choose your appointment type when
booking your appointment
Contact
Janine Gessner Mash, LCGC
phone: (415) 715-9698
fax: (855) 676-7336
email: janine@arborgenetics.com