Facilitating the Genetic Counseling Process Practice-Based Skills, Second Edition

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Appendix 6.1: Observer Checklist for Beginning the Genetic

Counseling Session

Ye s No

Initial greeting

Chairs at comfortable distance

Faces patient

Introduces self

Asks how to address patient

Makes some small talk, if appropriate

Orientation

Presents credentials

Discusses taping/supervision

Describes genetic counseling

Contracting and goal setting

Asks about patient’s reasons for seeking genetic counseling

Attempts to establish goals

Seeks patient’s agreement to work on goals

Miscellaneous

Is sensitive to patient’s questions/concerns

Discusses follow-up to the session

Additional comments

Appendix 6.2: Observer Checklist for Ending the Genetic

Counseling Session

Ye s No N/A

Anticipate conclusion of session

Summarizes major points

Reaches consensus on what to do next

Agrees on time, date, and place of future contact

Is aware of time constraints (e.g., clinic schedule)

Gives cues to signal the end

Determines why patient does not want to leave

Makes special arrangements for additional time

Observes courtesies of departure

Ends on positive note, if appropriate

Structures end of relationship

Assesses extent to which goals were accomplished

Asks patient to summarize decision-making progress

Summarizes patient decision-making progress

Plans follow-up

Makes referral to other sources

Additional comments

Appendix 6.2: Observer Checklist for Ending the Genetic Counseling Session