Genetic factors play a major role in causing developmental disabilities. While Down syndrome is widely recognized, there are hundreds of other less well known genetic conditions which can cause autism, intellectual disability, and other developmental symptoms. Most adults with special needs have never had a genetic evaluation to determine the underlying cause of their disabilities; such testing was simply not available when they were younger. Determining the cause of an adult’s disability can help family members to better understand why it occurred and the chance that it might recur in future generations.

Equally important, knowing the underlying cause can potentially enable families and providers to access syndrome-specific interventions which address the individual’s medical, behavioral, and learning needs.

About the presenters:
Brenda Finucane, MS, CGC is a certified genetic counselor who serves as Elwyn's Executive Director of Genetic Services. She is widely published and has gained national recognition for her expertise in the behavioral and cognitive manifestations of genetic syndromes. Ms. Finucane serves on the scientific advisory committees of several genetics support organizations and is currently an elected board member of the National Society of Genetic Counselors.

Elliott W Simon, PhD is a licensed psychologist and Executive Director of Elwyn’s Research and Health Services. Dr. Simon’s main areas of clinical interest include developmental disabilities and psychiatric disorders, particularly behavioral and cognitive profiles associated with intellectual disabilities. Dr. Simon has published on a wide variety of topics related to developmental disabilities, including facial emotion recognition, memory, quality of life, and practical applications of genetic diagnosis