The role of a genetic counsellor is to mediate between the rapid advances in molecular medicine and an individual's ability to understand and manage the risks of their inheritance. Counsellors therefore need to be fully in command of the psychological impact of their communications. Written by a psychiatrist who later became a psychotherapist, this manual is essential reading for counsellors of all disciplines. It examines the psychological processes and explains why people approach and respond differently. Effective genetic counselling requires a knowledge of attachment behaviour and non-directiveness, and an in-depth understanding of empathy in order to help individuals contain anxiety and process grief and so facilitate their decision-making or help with the effects of reviewing a test result. Along with an up-to-date discussion of similar approaches in family therapy and psychoanalysis, the effect of counselling on the counsellor is also examined creatively in order to enrich the interview with clients.

'… 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.'

Source: 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 …'

Source: 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.'

Source: Psychological Medicine

'… easy to read … This informative and inspiring book is highly recommended.'

Source: Journal of Psychosomatic Research