Speaker(s):
Presentation: Genetics is a field where new information is being uncovered every day. For many mental health conditions as well as physical conditions, gene mutations are being discovered. This may not only inform treatment choices but also leads to issues that are potentially ethically challenging such as genetic testing, disclosure, legal implications, genetic discrimination and more. Modern practitioners need to have a basic understanding of genetics and be prepared to deal with ethical decision-making. Is genetic testing always appropriate? Can you understand the implications of a positive (or negative) genetic testing on the client and on the family? What should you know and educate your client about before genetic testing or disclosure? This workshop seeks to provide an overview of genetics and begin addressing some of the advanced constructs that all practitioners should know.
Objectives:
- Define the basic principles of genetics and genomics
- Articulate the ethical issues inherent at the intersection of genetics and mental health
- Expand understanding of the risks, benefits and limitations of genetic testing
- Explain how to use existing Codes of Ethics including NBCC and NASW to inform practice with genetic conditions
Slides:
Barton_Beyond_Beyond Confidentiality – Ethical Considerations in Genetics MIMH 2017
Barton-NASW Standards for Integrating Genetics into Social Work Practice