Understanding Genetics in the Therapy Room: Bridging the Gap Between DNA and Mental Health

Welcome to Genetics for Counsellors & Psychotherapists!

Ms Uruj Anjum, Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, MBACP, Msc

Welcome to the Genetics for Counsellors & Psychotherapists Blog, brought to you by Saiyna Therapy. My name is Uruj, and I am a Registered Counsellor with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). With a background in genetics and nine years of experience as a research genetic counsellor in the NHS, I specialise in Attachment Psychotherapy at my online private practice.

This blog aims to ignite curiosity and deepen understanding of how genetics can inform and transform the therapy room. As an online therapist I support clients with a personal diagnosis or a family member with a genetic diagnosis. We work to improve their mental well-being and understanding their relationships by considering the impact of the genetic diagnosis.

Understanding the impact of genetics in the therapy room.

Exploring Genetics in Therapy

In this article, we'll delve into the fundamentals of genetics and inheritance, highlighting their relevance to our lives and relationships. We'll also discuss implications for individuals, parents, and professionals, aiming to bridge the gap between genetics and therapy.

The Basics of Genetics

Genetics is the study of genes, the fundamental units of heredity. Genes are passed from parents to children and play a crucial role in our development and maintenance. Each gene is a segment of DNA, contributing to your unique characteristics. Our genome, composed of approximately 20,000 genes within 23 pairs of chromosomes, is the blueprint of our individuality. Typically, we inherit one set of each gene from each parent.

Genetic Diagnosis

Genetic diagnosis involves using genetic or genomic testing to identify rare or genetic diseases. This process often involves analysing a blood or saliva sample in a Genomics Laboratory Hub. In cancer cases, tumour tissue may be examined. In the UK, the NHS conducts genetic testing in one of many Genomics Laboratories. Patients are also seen by a team including geneticists, genetic counsellors, nurses, researchers, and other MDT members.

Understanding Inheritance

Genetic conditions can be inherited in various ways:

1. Differences in Chromosome Number: Conditions like Down syndrome are caused by an extra chromosome.

2. Autosomal Dominant: A single altered gene copy can cause a condition, which can be inherited from one affected parent. For example Huntington’s Disease.

3. Autosomal Recessive: Two altered gene copies (one from each parent) are necessary to express the condition. For example: Batten’s Disease.

4. X-Linked Dominant: Mutations in genes on the X chromosome can cause conditions, often more severe in males. For example Fragile X syndrome

5. X-Linked Recessive: Conditions occur when mutations on the X chromosome are present in both copies (in females) or one copy (in males). For example Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

6. New Mutations: Some genetic changes occur spontaneously in an individual and can be passed to offspring.

Impact of Genetic Diagnosis

• Risk to Family Members: Identifying a genetic condition may indicate that other family members are at risk of inheriting it.

• Decisions About Future Children: Genetic information can inform family planning, including considerations of prenatal testing or assisted reproductive technologies.

• Unexpected Information: Genetic testing may reveal surprising insights, such as issues of paternity or previously unknown relationships.

Implications for the Therapy Room

Understanding genetics can significantly impact the therapeutic process:

• Enhancing Self-Awareness: Clients can gain insights into their genetic predispositions, influencing their mental health and behavior.

• Informed Decision-Making: Knowledge of genetic risks empowers clients to make informed decisions about family planning and health management.

• Building Empathy: A therapist’s understanding of genetic influences can foster empathy and strengthen the therapeutic relationship, as clients feel validated in their experiences.

• Navigating Family Dynamics: Genetics can clarify family roles and relationships, helping clients understand inherited patterns and navigate complex family dynamics.

The Therapeutic Relationship

Integrating genetics into therapy deepens the therapeutic relationship by:

• Promoting Open Dialogue: Discussing genetics encourages honest communication about sensitive topics, such as health risks and family history.

• Personalized Approaches: Therapists can tailor interventions based on genetic information, addressing specific needs and fostering personal growth.

• Reducing Stigma: Understanding genetic predispositions can reduce self-blame and societal stigma, promoting acceptance and compassion.

Looking for more support?

Incorporating genetics into therapy offers a holistic approach to mental health, enhancing the therapeutic experience. By understanding the genetic underpinnings, therapists can provide more empathetic support to their clients. Stay tuned for more insights and discussions on integrating genetics into counseling practice. Thank you for joining me on this journey to explore the fascinating intersection of genetics and therapy. 

Have you ever worked with a client who has received a genetic diagnosis? How did understanding their genetic background influence your therapeutic approach and the dynamics of your sessions?