Table of Contents

Foreword Peter Harper; Preface; 1. An overview of genetic counselling; 2. The psychological processes underlying genetic counselling; 3. Understanding individual differences in genetic counselling using Attachment Theory; 4. The role and skills of the counsellor and ideas from psychotherapy; 5. Examples of the roles and skills of the counsellor; 6. The gene and the Family System; 7. Working with parents and children; 8. The influence of the nature of the disorder on the consultation; 9. The effect on the counsellor; 10. The interview and non-directiveness; Index.

Promotional Information

This manual is essential reading for genetic counsellors and counsellors of all disciplines.

Reviews

'... provides eloquent testimony for the central role psychological considerations do and should play in the day-to-day work of the genetic counselling professions (whether medical geneticists, genetic counsellors, genetic nurses, etc.) ... the book is dense with content and meaning, but does not let that put you off - it will richly reward the serious reader. The language is admirably clear, providing a transparency to the descriptions of psychological mechanisms and counselling techniques ... liberal use of case vignettes, augmented by actual transcript material, carefully chosen to illustrate the emotional challenges faced by families affected by genetic disease and, equally importantly, to place the spotlight on the quality of communication in genetic consultations ... this book is essential reading for us all (students, trainees and experienced practitioners alike) - whether to introduce, expand, consolidate or revitalise our knowledge and skills as counsellors in this unique medical discipline.' Journal of Human Genetics 'This engrossing book is a welcome addition to the small but growing body of texts devoted exclusively to psychological considerations in genetic counselling practice. ... I would not normally recommend a book on genetic counselling for the bedside table, but I would make an exception for this gem which should be read by all those engaged in genetic counselling, from cover to cover (not devoured, but slowly savoured) to reap its rich rewards ...' Journal of Human Genetics 'This book is essential reading for us all (students, trainees and experienced practitioners alike) - whether to introduce, expand, consolidate or revitalise our knowledge and skills as counsellors in this unique medical discipline.' Journal of Human Genetics 'This beautifully constructed work captures the essence of genetic counselling making it an essential read for anyone working in this profession. This book will also inform those health professionals who may be considering a career in clinical genetics. ... This book succeeds in finding the language to describe and understand what genetic counselling is. All health professionals in the field and others wishing to learn more about effective communication with patients and their families will find reading this book a thought-provoking and stimulating experience.' Psychological Medicine