Genetic Counseling for Hereditary Cancer Risk
LifeShield’s licensed genetic counselors help you understand what your family history means, what your results say, and what to do next.
Check My EligibilityCheck eligibility
5-minute eligibility check
Complete at-home testing
At-home test kit if qualified
Review results
Results reviewed with a counselor
What Is Genetic Counseling for Cancer Risk?
Genetic counseling is a specialized healthcare service that helps you understand your hereditary cancer risk. A licensed genetic counselor reviews your family history, explains what genetic testing can and cannot tell you, and helps you make informed decisions about screening and prevention.
Whether you are considering testing for the first time or need help understanding results for BRCA1, CHEK2, or other genes, a genetic counselor provides the clinical context and emotional support the process requires.
When Do People Usually Seek Genetic Counseling?
Before testing
To understand whether genetic testing is right for you, what it covers, and what the results might mean for you and your family.
After a positive result
To understand your specific mutation, what it means for your cancer risk, and what screening or prevention options are recommended.
After a VUS (variant of uncertain significance) result
To understand what uncertainty means, how it is monitored over time, and how it may affect decisions for you and your family.
When a family member tests positive
To understand your own risk, discuss whether testing makes sense for you, and get guidance on cascade testing for other relatives.
Who Should Consider Genetic Counseling for Cancer Risk?
- Anyone with a personal or family history of hereditary cancer considering genetic testing
- Someone who has received a positive genetic test result and needs help understanding it
- Someone who received a variant of uncertain significance (VUS) and wants expert interpretation
- A family member of someone who tested positive for a hereditary mutation
- Anyone uncertain about whether hereditary cancer testing is right for them
What LifeShield Genetic Counseling Includes
Licensed, board-certified genetic counselors
Credentialed professionals specializing in hereditary cancer risk
Pre-test and post-test sessions
Guidance before testing and a full results review after
Family history interpretation
Analysis of your family history against NCCN clinical criteria
Cascade testing guidance
Support for family members who may also need testing
Is Genetic Counseling Covered by Insurance?
Most eligible patients qualify for coverage when NCCN-based criteria are met. Genetic counseling sessions are typically covered when associated with a covered genetic testing benefit.
Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan. LifeShield provides insurance support and superbill assistance to help navigate coverage for every patient.
Reviewed by the LifeShield Medical Team · Last reviewed: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
A genetic counselor is a healthcare professional trained in medical genetics and counseling. They help you understand your family history, explain what genetic test results mean, discuss risk implications, and guide next steps for you and your family.
Pre-test counseling helps you understand what you are testing for, what the possible results mean, and how results might affect your health decisions and family. LifeShield includes pre-test counseling as part of the testing process.
Most eligible patients qualify for coverage when NCCN criteria are met. Counseling sessions associated with covered genetic testing are typically reimbursable. LifeShield includes insurance support for all patients.
A genetic counselor specializes in helping patients understand and navigate genetic risk, results, and decisions. A medical geneticist is a physician who diagnoses and manages genetic conditions. For hereditary cancer risk, a genetic counselor is typically the right specialist.
Yes. LifeShield’s genetic counseling sessions are conducted online via secure video or phone. No in-person visit or referral is required.
Ready to Check Your Eligibility?
It takes about 5 minutes and costs nothing. Find out whether hereditary cancer testing is recommended for you.
Check My EligibilityMedical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is based on published NCCN clinical guidelines and peer-reviewed research. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions. LifeShield content is reviewed by board-certified genetic counselors.