Over 20 million people are estimated to have done an at-home genetic test, most focused around ancestry testing, and the numbers jump each holiday season. Brianne Kirkpatrick is a certified genetic counselor and the founder of Watershed DNA, which includes a private practice genetic counseling service for individuals who are considering direct-to-consumer testing as well as individuals who have been surprised by the results of their direct-to-consumer testing. In this interview, Brianne shares some of the surprises and family secrets her clients have stumbled across after direct-to-consumer testing and gives some advice as to what to consider before gifting a kit or doing one yourself.


Story Reference Points:

Brianne’s own family mystery “Where did Grandpa Ted go?” @ 3:00

Brianne founds Watershed DNA @ 6:34

Increase in DTC testing means more family secrets are revealed @ 11:12

Facebook support groups for those dealing with DNA Surprises @ 17:19

Brianne’s co-authored book in progress The DNA Guide for Adoptees. @ 19:46

Is a DNA test kit a good gift? @ 22:06

Two things most people don’t understand about DTC testing @ 24:40

Individuals share their #DNASurprise stories on Brianne’s site @ 28:50


Links and Resources
Brianne’s company: Watershed DNA

Brianne’s blog post: “DNA Testing: Considerations Before You Test”

Brianne’s blog

Watershed DNA Resources & DNA Surprise Stories

Book an appointment with Brianne


Connect with Brianne and Watershed DNA on Social Media

Watershed DNA on Facebook

Brianne on Twitter: @GCBrianne

Brianne on LinkedIn

Brianne is also newly on Instagram: @GC Brianne


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Are you looking for genetic counseling?
Patient Stories is sponsored by Grey Genetics, an independent telehealth genetic counseling and consulting company. Book an appointment with a genetic counselor specialized in your area of concern. Choose from our growing Network of Genetic Counselors. All genetic counseling appointments take place over secure, HIPAA-compliant video-conferencing or by phone.