Frequently Asked Questions About Genetic Testing & Counselling

We’ve included some of the most common questions people ask before booking a genetic counselling appointment. If your situation isn’t covered here—reach out. No question is too small, and your story deserves more than a generic answer.

  • What is genetic counselling?

    Genetic counselling is a chance to explore your health, family history, and future plans with a qualified professional who listens—not just runs through a checklist. We help make sense of testing options, support informed decisions, and give you space to talk through what matters to you..

  • Should I consider carrier screening before pregnancy?

    If you're planning to start or grow your family, carrier screening can help identify any genetic conditions you may unknowingly carry. Most people are healthy carriers of at least one condition—and we offer options tailored to you, your partner, and your timeline.

  • What types of genetic tests are available?

    There are many—from carrier screening to fertility panels, prenatal tests, adult-onset condition panels, and personalised health assessments. We help explain them in plain terms, and guide you toward what’s relevant—not just what’s available.

  • What happens during an appointment?

    Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, we’ll meet you where you're at. We talk through your history, beliefs, concerns, goals, and options. It’s informal, informative, and all about helping you feel prepared—not pressured.

  • How much does it cost?

    Some tests are covered by Medicare or private health, others may involve out-of-pocket costs. We’ll outline pricing clearly before anything is ordered—no surprises, and no hidden fees and it’s up to you if you want genetic testing or not. We aim to make sure you are fully aware of your options before proceeding.

  • What if I don’t want testing yet?

    That’s perfectly okay. Genetic counselling doesn’t mean you have to be ready for testing. It can be a space to explore your values, clarify timing, and understand what options might be available later. Some people leave feeling reassured, others return when it feels right.

  • Will my results affect insurance or employment?

    In Australia, genetic testing results do not currently impact employment or health insurance, and your privacy is protected. We’ll discuss any relevant considerations, especially around life and income insurance, so you feel confident and informed before you proceed.

  • What makes people book an appointment?

    People book for many reasons—including:

    - Planning a pregnancy and wanting clarity

    - Concerns about family history

    - Seeking second opinions on testing or results

    - Feeling overwhelmed by options online

    - Wanting a trusted, independent conversation with medical professionals with over 25 years experience.

  • Which Genetic Service Is Right for You?

    COMING SOON

    Take this short quiz to learn which service best suits your needs. Choose the answers that feel most true for you right now—no pressure, no judgment.

  • L.R

    I can't recommend Genomic Health enough. Katrina has been so helpful with my journey in discovering my family's interesting gene history. She takes the time to listen about your family history and to explain genetics. I was so relieved I could get my results fairly quickly going with Genomic Health. If I was to go in the public system it was going to take up to 8 months for my results. Thank you Katrina 🤗

  • W.W

    I was referred to Genomic Health through my GP. From start to finish, I cannot describe how smooth and easy the process was. Katrina took the time to explain the process in great detail, and answered any questions I had. I highly recommend!

  • S.B

    Where can I start?
    Katrina is nothing short of amazing - extremely knowledgeable and passionate about helping her clients.
    She has the most amazing bedside manner when dealing with such a difficult job (being so much uncertainty in genetics) however she made me feel like I was being explained everything in detail, she made sure I understood everything before we were to even move forward.
    I truly felt heard and seen by her and I’d recommend anyone wanting to look into genetic testing to come see this lovely lady.
    I just hope that one day the government makes this more accessible so we can build a proper database in AUS for researchers and be able to keep making progress in this field - maybe in hopes people have far less intrusive testing options in the future for various illnesses/disorders.
    Thank you for always being happy to educate and share information with me also Katrina you’re a star! ⭐️

  • A.S

    After Suffering numerous health problems throughout my life, I turned to Katrina Harrison of Genomic Health to get a genetic test done. Katrina and her team are very professional, explain everything, and it is well thought out. I live in another state and was still able to do everything over the computer. Genomic health found answers for me having a rare genetic condition. I am incredibly grateful to Genomic health and I can now have a better quality of life. They are fantastic.

  • Z.P

    I can not recommend Genomic Health enough. Dr Kathrine and Katrina are the dream team! From the moment of contact Katrina made everything smooth and easy (only word for it). During our first meeting there was no feeling of being rushed or not truely listened to. She explained in detail the processess for diagnosis and future planning. We were able to book appointments that suited my whole family, I emailed many questions and nothing was too much trouble for her. The day finding out my sons genetic results I never felt rushed or alone, both Dr Kathrine and Katrina made me feel like I was the most important person to them and I could take all the time I needed to come to terms with the result. Over a year has passed and Katrina still emails me to see how we are going.
    The bar has been set, if only all medical specialists were as good as the amazing women at Genomic Health.
    I will forever recommend them to everyone who needs genetic support.

  • K.S

    Genomic Health are absolutely amazing. Katrina is extremely professional. She and Dr Goel explained everything to me until it made perfect sense . Our genetics can be so difficult to understand, however I felt like we were in safe hands every step of the way. Nothing was rushed and they welcomed all of my questions. I would happily recommend Genonic Health to all of my friends and friends.