Our Genetic Counselors
Shira Javanfard, MS, LCGC
My Background
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California, where I was taught the value of hard work and the importance giving back to my community. During my junior year of high school, I began volunteering at genetic screening events in Los Angeles, which is where I was introduced to the field of genetic counseling. As members of the community entered the testing room, I could see fear and concern fill their eyes, and questions flood their minds: ‘What would a positive result indicate? Are my children at risk? Is there a cure?’ It was then that a genetic counselor took their hand and explained the implications of their results. As I sat watching the compassionate interaction between the counselor and the patient, I witnessed the wave of relief and understanding that passed through the patient with every word the genetic counselor spoke. It was at that moment that I decided to pursue a career in genetic counseling.
Education & Experience
I began my undergraduate education at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), majoring in microbiology, immunology and molecular genetics. I then pursed my graduate studies at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) and graduated with a master’s degree in genetic counseling. Through my training at UCI, I had the opportunity to work with patients spanning different medical institutions throughout Southern California. I focused on understanding the needs of each community and developing strategies to help bridge the gaps. My background and clinical training has allowed me to understand that each individual brings their personal beliefs to the session and it is important to respect their cultural needs and personal needs in order to empower and educate them to make informed decisions.
After completing my training, I knew working for Kaiser Permanente would allow me to provide the best care for my patients, and I was fortunate enough to be provided with that opportunity after graduating. With their commitment to provide high quality, affordable care to all of their patients, Kaiser Permanente has provided me with the resources I need to support my patients throughout their medical journey.
About My Practice
I currently practice genetic counseling services within the prenatal and cancer patient populations. While the referrals are vastly different, my goal is always the same— to provide each individual with support and help guide them through their medical options. Each clinic day brings an opportunity to meet new people and become part of their medical team. I wake up excited to go to work and strive to earn the trust of each patient that walks through my door.