Ms Cathrine Houghton BSc (Hons), MSc, RGC
Genetics
- Speciality:
- Genetics
- Qualifications:
- BSc (Hons), MSc, RGC
- Membership of professional bodies:
- Genetic Counsellors can be members of: British Society of Human Genetics (BSHG) Association of Genetic Nurses and Counsellors (AGNC) Cancer Genetics Group (CGG) Royal College of Nursing (RCN)
- Current posts:
- Genetic Counsellor
- Special clinical interests:
- Genetic assessment, diagnostic testing for known genetic conditions, predictive testing & support for at risk family members and screening recommendations as well as teaching and mentoring.
- Background:
- Genetic Counsellors can come from a science background with an MSc in genetic counselling or have a nursing background. Nurses also have a degree and counselling skills training. They may also have an accredited science qualification. We see patients of all ages both independently or as part of joint counselling with other genetic counsellors and doctors. As Genetic Counsellors, our role is to help individuals or families to: • Understand the information about the genetic condition • Appreciate the inheritance pattern and risk of recurrence • Understand the options available • Make decisions appropriate to their personal and family situation • Make the best possible adjustment to a disorder or their risk of developing or being a carrier for a condition We help people to gain a sufficient understanding of their situation so that they can make informed decisions about what they wish to do.
As a team we aim to: • Maintain a high quality safe service that is responsive to patients needs • Continually strive to develop and evolve as a team and service by evaluating and improving practices • Respond to the Department of Health’s targets as well as regional and Trust objectives and work as efficiently as possible • Promote supportive team working • Celebrate achievements –demonstrating good practice in our patient care
Ms Cathrine Houghton