Something worthwhile to consider regarding genetic testing is how to live with a positive result.  Should an individual be told if they have a high probability for developing a certain disease later in life?  What if the test results are later proved to be inaccurate?  Knowledge of a genetic weakness could certainly impact the way an individual leads his or her life.  It is even possible to detect certain genetic diseases that do not manifest themselves until later in life.  Being aware of an impending disease would have a profound influence on a person's life.  Genetic counselors work with clients of genetic testing and help them work through the options and deal with the outcome of a positive test.

Before any tests are performed, the genetic counselor will try to make certain that the client is psychologically prepared to deal with the possibility of a positive test. The ultimate decision whether or not to proceed with testing lies with the client.  The counselor is available to help the client and their family, understand the implications of the disease and the tests available, adjust to the test results, and to help them arrange the appropriate prevention and screening measures.

The genetic counselor can act as liaison between the doctor and the client, evaluate the test results, and provide the proper consulting.  The counselor provides information on all the alternatives in order to help the clients make the best suitable decisions based upon their beliefs. The counselor should be impartial to the final decision, and not pass any judgment that would influence a clients decision.  All the possible alternatives should be presented in an unbiased manner.  Also, the genetic counselor should bring up the availability of resources in the community that deal with a specific genetic condition and alert the client to any local medical specialists, educational specialists, or family support groups.