Browse genetic counselors in California.
961
Genetic Counselors
100%
Accepting patients
34%
Most common: MS
Ranked by Clarity Score, based on profile detail, verification, and patient activity.
California is home to 961 licensed genetic counselors, one of the larger genetic counselor workforces in the country. 100% are currently accepting new patients. The most common credential is MS (34%), which stands for Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. CGC (Certified Genetic Counselor) is the second most common at 19%.
UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine and UCSF School of Medicine train genetic counselors in the state. Notable hospitals include Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center, and UCSF Medical Center. Health systems such as Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Health, and Cedars-Sinai Health System employ many of the state's genetic counselors.
Patients with Medi-Cal should verify coverage directly, as not all genetic counselors participate. The most widely accepted carriers include unitedhealthcare, centene, qhp-73836, qhp-44228, and qhp-38344.
California ranks among the top states for physicians per capita and has more medical schools than any other state.
California has 961 licensed genetic counselors. 100% are currently accepting new patients, so finding an available provider should be straightforward.
Yes. 100% of genetic counselors in California are currently accepting new patients. You can filter your search on FindClarity to show only providers who are taking new patients.
The most commonly accepted carriers among genetic counselors in California include unitedhealthcare, centene, qhp-73836, qhp-44228, and qhp-38344. Coverage and in-network status vary by provider, so it is worth confirming directly with the office before scheduling. FindClarity shows accepted insurance for each provider.
A genetic counseling session costs $100 to $400 (often covered by insurance). Genetic testing costs $250 to $2,000+ (usually covered when medically indicated). With insurance copay: $20 to $75. Actual costs in California depend on the provider and your insurance plan. Many genetic testing labs offer reduced self-pay pricing ($250 or less) if insurance denies coverage. The genetic counselor will help with pre-authorization and can advise on the most cost-effective testing approach. GINA protects against health insurance discrimination based on genetic results.
Look for a board-certified provider who accepts your insurance and practices near you. California has 961 genetic counselors. Reading patient reviews and checking hospital affiliations can help narrow your choice. FindClarity lets you compare providers by credentials, insurance, and location.
MS stands for Master of Science in Genetic Counseling and CGC stands for Certified Genetic Counselor. Both are equivalent qualifications. In California, 34% hold the MS credential and 19% hold CGC. The difference is in training pathway, not quality of care.
Some genetic counselors in California accept Medi-Cal, the state's Medicaid program. Medicaid covers genetic counseling and testing for prenatal and cancer indications in most states. Coverage varies for other indications. Contact the provider's office directly to confirm Medi-Cal participation before scheduling.
Most people see a genetic counselor one to three times. A typical encounter involves one pre-test session and one results disclosure session. Cancer risk patients may have periodic follow-ups. Prenatal patients may have one session per pregnancy. With 961 genetic counselors in California, you can search on FindClarity to find a provider who fits your schedule.
Top accepted carriers in California include unitedhealthcare, centene, qhp-73836, qhp-44228, and qhp-38344.
Genetic counseling sessions are covered by most insurance plans when medically indicated. Medicare covers genetic counseling for hereditary cancer syndromes and prenatal indications. Medicaid coverage varies by state. Genetic testing is covered when ordered based on medical necessity criteria (family history, clinical findings). Pre-authorization is often required for both the counseling visit and the test. If insurance denies coverage for testing, many labs offer reduced self-pay rates or financial assistance programs. The genetic counselor can help navigate coverage and appeals.