Show notes
Today’s episode explores two deeply human dimensions of genetic counseling- how we support families as they process complex genomic information over time and how people make meaning in the face of uncertainty. Both segments discuss how we can support people as they make sense of genetic information in their lives.
Segment 1: Putting control into parents' hands: Parent experiences with a genomic results e-booklet
Guest Bio:
Shelin Adam is a Master's trained Genetic Counsellor and Clinical Assistant Professor working at the University of British Columbia Department of Medical Genetics, as well as the Division of Pediatric Neurology at BC Children's Hospital. Her research focus has been the application of new genetic and genomic technology. More specifically, she is interested in understanding the best ways to provide education, decision support and genetic counselling to families being offered genomic sequencing. Shelin has also been involved in looking at issues of equity and access for diverse families who face linguistic, cultural, geographic and economic issues when trying to obtain genetic services.
Key Takeaways:
- A genomic results booklet to support parents after pediatric genomic testing.
- Findings show improved understanding, communication, and advocacy through a take-home resource.
- The study highlights challenges with accessibility, language, and timing of information delivery.
- The discussion considers the booklet’s role as a partial substitute for genetic counseling and future AI integration.
Segment 2: Exploring the principles of logotherapy in genetic counseling: Enhancing decision-making, adaptation, and justice
Guest Bios:
Nour Chanouha, MS, CGC (she/her), emigrated from her home country of Lebanon in 2020 to pursue a career in genetic counseling. Nour graduated from the Northwestern Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling in 2022 and has since been practicing as a genetic counselor in the maternal-fetal medicine and reproductive endocrinology and infertility (IVF) clinics at the University of Iowa Health Care. Nour holds several leadership roles, including serving as a board member of the Arab Society of Genetic Counselors and co-Chair of its Education Committee, as well as co-Chair of the National Society of Genetic Counselors’ (NSGC) International SIG Mentorship Program. She is also an active volunteer on multiple committees within the National Society of Genetic Counselors, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology. Nour is actively involved in research, education, and mentorship both within and beyond her institution and has been awarded the NSGC 2025 New Leader Award.
Nour’s interest in logotherapy began early in her career. She decided to pursue training in logotherapy as a way to strengthen her counseling skills, enhance cultural competency, and better support patients navigating grief and loss, while also fostering personal and professional growth. When she is not reading Viktor Frankl’s writings on the weekend, she enjoys cooking, traveling and volunteering with the Immigrant Welcome Network of Johnson County.
Kendra is a board-certified genetic counselor with 15 years of experience in reproductive genetics. She currently serves as the supervisor of prenatal genetic counseling at University of Iowa Health Care and is the founder of Allay Life, a private practice dedicated to supporting individuals and families navigating unexpected news in pregnancy. Kendra is deeply committed to advancing the practice of genetic counseling through education and mentorship, with a particular focus on the power of therapeutic relationships and counseling skills to enhance patient outcomes. She also provides peer and professional supervision for practicing genetic counselors and graduate students.
Key Takeaways:
- This episode explores the use of logotherapy to support meaning-centered genetic counseling.
- The discussion highlights how focusing on patient values can guide decision-making and coping.
- Logotherapy presented as a practical clinical framework for navigating uncertainty, grief, and complex choices.
- The conversation emphasizes its role in promoting patient autonomy, equity, and holistic care.
Would you like to nominate a JoGC article to be featured in the show? If so, please fill out this nomination submission form here. Multiple entries are encouraged including articles where you, your colleagues, or your friends are authors.
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For more information about this episode visit dnadialogues.podbean.com, where you can also stream all episodes of the show. Check out the Journal of Genetic Counseling here for articles featured in this episode and others.
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DNA Dialogues’ team includes Jehannine Austin, Naomi Wagner, Khalida Liaquat, Kate Wilson and DNA Today’s Kira Dineen. Our logo was designed by Ashlyn Enokian. Our current intern is Stephanie Schofield.