DNA Test Selection Consultation

Service Description

Choosing the right DNA test can be confusing. Different companies have different databases, matching tools, ethnicity models and strengths, and the best test depends very much on what you actually want to discover. The DNA Test Selection Consultation starts with your research goal. You may want to learn more about your ethnic background, identify biological relatives, investigate an unknown parent or grandparent, confirm a particular family line, or simply understand which test gives you the best chance of finding useful matches. We will discuss what you already know about your family background, which branches of your family are relevant, and whether other relatives may be available for testing. In some cases, testing the right relative can be just as important as choosing the right company. Based on your goals and circumstances, I will recommend the one or two DNA tests most suitable for your purpose and explain the reasons behind the recommendation. The aim is not to sell you unnecessary tests, but to select the testing strategy that gives you the best chance of obtaining useful results. Commonly recommended DNA test kits are kept in stock, so if you decide to proceed, the test can usually be taken immediately. For clients who prefer additional privacy, anonymous testing options can also be discussed and arranged where appropriate. The consultation costs $40. If you later book the Making Sense of Your DNA Results service once your results are available, the full $40 consultation fee will be credited towards that service. In that case, the initial consultation is effectively free. No scientific or genealogical knowledge is required. The consultation is simply about understanding what you want to find out and choosing the most sensible DNA testing strategy to get there.