Direct-to-consumer genetic counseling services
Jul 7 – Oct 17, 2026Updated Oct 17, 2026
Reviewed by Dimitry Apollonsky
Which brands AI mentions
Mentioned in
ChatGPTChatGPTGoogle AI ModeGoogle AI Mode
Widest split: Invitae, 59% on ChatGPT and 14% on Google AI Mode.
- #1tiedGenome MedicalChatGPT 86%Google AI Mode 90%
- #1tiedInformedDNAChatGPT 64%Google AI Mode 90%
- #3tied23andMeChatGPT 50%Google AI Mode 52%
- #3tiedInvitaeChatGPT 59%Google AI Mode 14%
- #5tiedGrey GeneticsChatGPT 14%Google AI Mode 48%
Questions and answers
ChatGPTOct 8, 2026
Yes. In the U.S., there are several ways consumers can access genetic counseling directly, including telehealth and self-pay options. The important distinction is that some companies provide counseling only after you purchase their genetic test, while others offer counseling as a standalone clinical service.
Providers worth considering
Provider Direct-to-consumer access? What they offer Genome Medical Yes Telehealth genetic counseling, including self-pay appointments; genetic counselors can assess family history, discuss testing options, and interpret results. They operate across all 50 states. Invitae / Labcorp Invitae Yes, but generally tied to Invitae testing Patients who undergo an Invitae test can access genetic counseling at no additional charge in the U.S., territories, and Canada. Independent genetic counselors via NSGC Yes The National Society of Genetic Counselors directory can connect consumers directly with counselors, including providers offering phone/video telehealth. Sunstone Health Yes A direct-to-consumer telehealth genetics service focused on children/families, involving genetic counselors, clinical geneticists and other specialists. Availability depends on state licensure. Particularly useful if you don't want genetic testing first
Genome Medical is one of the clearest options. It explicitly offers an appointment with a board-certified genetic counselor, including a self-pay option of up to $250, and the initial consultation can be used to decide whether genetic testing is appropriate.
Another route is to find an independent genetic counselor through the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC). This can be preferable if you want counseling that isn't tied to a particular testing company's products. The CDC specifically recommends the NSGC directory for finding genetic counselors.
One important caveat
"Direct-to-consumer genetic counseling" can mean two quite different things:
- Independent clinical counseling: You pay for a consultation and discuss your family history, risks, and whether testing makes sense.
- Testing-company counseling: Counseling is bundled with or follows a company's genetic test.
The latter isn't necessarily bad, but it can create a different incentive structure. The American Heart Association notes that DTC genetic-testing companies increasingly offer telehealth counseling, while also noting that the scope of those services can vary considerably.
If you're looking at this from a market/competitive landscape perspective, I can also give you a more comprehensive list of 20+ companies providing consumer-accessible genetic counseling in the U.S., including pricing, specialties, insurance/self-pay, telehealth coverage, and whether they sell genetic tests themselves.
Sources cited in this answer6
- genomemedical.comInvitae Family | Genome Medical
- invitae.comGenetic counseling faqs | For individuals | Invitae
- nsgc.orgNSGC > About > About Genetic Counselors
- cdc.govGenetic Counseling | Genomics and Your Health | CDC
- sunstonehealth.comSunstone — genetic answers for your child
- pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govDirect-to-Consumer Genetic Testing for Cardiovascular Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association - PMC
Google AI ModeSep 25, 2026
While major direct-to-consumer (DTC) testing companies like 23andMe or Ancestry provide raw data or automated risk reports without built-in real-time counseling , a growing market of telehealth genetic counseling networks allows consumers to book appointments directly—without requiring a physician's referral.
The primary independent and telehealth-driven providers offering genetic counseling directly to individuals include:
- Genome Medical – Offers direct-to-consumer telehealth appointments with board-certified genetic counselors via phone or video. They can evaluate family history, order clinical genetic tests when appropriate, and interpret existing results.
- Grey Genetics – A fully independent telehealth service that connects consumers directly with genetic counselors for pre- or post-test guidance. Operating on a self-pay model, they focus on privacy and are untied to any specific lab or testing product.
- InformedDNA – Provides direct patient access to expert, board-certified genetic counselors via telehealth to help navigate hereditary health risks or interpret complex genetic data.
- Third-Party Telehealth Partners via Testing Labs – Some clinical-grade genetic testing companies (such as Invitae or Color) build independent physician-networking or direct genetic counseling sessions into their consumer-initiated testing pathways, allowing you to speak to a clinician or counselor to review your ordered panels.
If you are looking to address a specific situation, tell me:
- Do you already have results from a DTC test (like 23andMe) or a clinical test?
- Are you looking into genetic counseling for family planning, hereditary cancer risk, or general health?
I can help guide you on which type of service fits best or how to prepare for an appointment.
Google AI ModeOct 17, 2026
Yes,
several national telehealth companies and specialized independent practices allow individuals to book genetic counseling sessions directly. Many of these platforms operate on a self-pay or insurance-backed model, meaning you often do not need a strict physician referral to get a consultation.Prominent providers offering direct access to board-certified genetic counselors include:
- Grey Genetics : An independent, patient-focused platform where individuals can directly browse profiles of board-certified genetic counselors and pick a specialist matching their specific needs. Their sessions are entirely self-pay, which keeps insurance out of the loop if privacy is a priority.
- Genome Medical : A nationwide telegenetics provider that offers direct virtual consultations with clinical genetic counselors across all 50 U.S. states. They assist with assessing family history, evaluating whether you should pursue a genetic test, or helping interpret existing raw data or direct-to-consumer reports (like 23andMe).
- InformedDNA : Offers direct-to-consumer and telehealth genetic counseling services covering various specialties (such as oncology, cardiology, and reproductive health). They accept major insurance plans for qualifying medical indications but also provide self-pay options.
- Color Health : Frequently integrates clinical guidance and genetic counseling alongside specific hereditary and preventive health testing programs.
If you're looking for a session, let me know:
- Are you trying to interpret existing genetic test results (like 23andMe or a medical lab test)?
- Are you looking for counseling regarding a specific hereditary health condition or family history?
I can help narrow down which service fits your situation best.
Sources cited in this answer6
- greygenetics.comGrey Genetics — Independent Telehealth Genetic Counseling
- genomemedical.comHow Do Telehealth and Telemedicine Services Work? | Genome Medical
- genomemedical.comGenetic Counseling Services | Genome Medical
- informeddna.comFor Patients – InformedDNA
- informeddna.comGenetic Counseling – InformedDNA
- blog.marketresearch.com9 Leading Companies in Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing
ChatGPTOct 17, 2026
Yes. Several companies in the United States offer genetic counseling directly to individuals, including virtual appointments with genetic counselors, often without needing a referral from a doctor. You may be able to book a session even if you haven't purchased a genetic test.
The key distinction is that some providers offer independent counseling about your health or family history, while others primarily help interpret genetic test results. The National Society of Genetic Counselors recommends considering counseling before and/or after direct-to-consumer genetic testing.
Companies to consider
1. Grey Genetics
(Best for independent advice)
Offers direct booking with independent genetic counselors by phone or video. You can choose a counselor and discuss genetic testing options, family history, or results from tests you've already taken. A free 10-minute introductory call is available.
Pricing: Initial consultation listed at $275 for 60 minutes; self-pay.
2. Genome Medical
Offers direct-to-individual telehealth consultations with board-certified genetic counselors. They can review your personal and family medical history, discuss whether testing makes sense, and explain existing results. No physician referral is required.
Pricing: Up to $250 per counseling visit, depending on insurance and payment arrangements. Testing costs extra.
Website and appointments www.genomemedical.comwww.nsgc.org
3. InformedDNA
Provides virtual genetic counseling with licensed, board-certified specialists across areas such as cancer genetics, cardiology, and reproductive health. Individuals can request appointments directly, and insurance coverage may be available.
Pricing: Depends on insurance and self-pay arrangements; ask for a quote.
Patient information and booking · Phone: 800-975-4819
4. Genetic Support Foundation
Offers virtual genetic counseling appointments for individuals through its patient services. It is another option to investigate if you want a counseling session without traveling to a clinic.
Pricing: Check its website for current fees and scheduling requirements.
Patient services and telehealth geneticsupportfoundation.org
Which is best for your needs?
If you want to… Start with Talk to someone before deciding whether to get tested Grey Genetics or Genome Medical Review results from an existing DNA test Grey Genetics or Genome Medical Explore inherited cancer or other medical risks Genome Medical or InformedDNA Find additional virtual or local counselors NSGC Find a Genetic Counselor What to check before booking
- Independence: Does the counselor offer advice regardless of which testing company you use?
- Credentials: Look for a board-certified genetic counselor, typically with the designation CGC.
- Location: The counselor's ability to see you may depend on the state where you are physically located during the appointment.
- Cost: Ask whether the consultation is self-pay, insurance-covered, or bundled with a specific test.
One important point: You don't need to buy a DNA test first. Genetic counseling can help you decide whether testing is useful at all.
I can also compare companies offering completely independent counseling or options that accept insurance.
Sources cited in this answer14
- nsgc.orgConsumer-Initiated Genetic Testing Position Statement
- nsgc.orgGenetic Counselor Workforce
- greygenetics.comGrey Genetics — Independent Telehealth Genetic Counseling
- greygenetics.comAppointment pricing
- greygenetics.comGrey Genetics — Independent Telehealth Genetic Counseling
- greygenetics.comAppointment pricing
Also asked as
- Are there any companies that offer genetic counseling sessions directly to the public?