How to Make a Genogram - Step-by-Step Guide

Building a genogram does not require special software training or artistic skill. If you can draw a square and a line, you can create a genogram. This guide walks you through the process from start to finish using our free genogram maker.

Step 1: Identify the Index Person

Every genogram centers on one individual - the client, patient, or person being assessed. This is called the index person. Start by placing them on the canvas. In our tool, click the appropriate symbol (square for male, circle for female) in the toolbar, then click the canvas to place it. Click the symbol to open the properties panel and enter their name, birth year, and any notes.

Step 2: Add the Partner

If the index person has a partner, place their symbol to the right. Then connect them with a relationship line - click the Relationship tool in the toolbar, click one person, then click the other. A marriage line appears between them. You can change the relationship type (marriage, divorce, separation, engagement, cohabitation) in the properties panel by clicking on the line.

Step 3: Add Children

Select the relationship line between the parents, then use the Add Child buttons (Son or Daughter) in the properties panel. Each child appears below the parents with connecting lines. Add their names and dates in the properties panel. Arrange children left to right by birth order, with the oldest on the left.

Step 4: Build Upward - Add Parents and Grandparents

A clinical genogram typically includes at least three generations. Add the index person's parents above them, connect them with a relationship line, and designate the index person as their child. Repeat for grandparents if the information is available. Each generation should sit on its own horizontal level.

Step 5: Add Siblings and Extended Family

Add siblings to each generation by adding more children to the parent relationships. You can also add aunts, uncles, and cousins by building out the grandparent generation's children. Use the Auto Layout button to keep things organized as your genogram grows.

Step 6: Mark Deceased Members

Select any person and check the Deceased box in the properties panel. An X appears through their symbol - the standard genogram notation for a deceased individual. Add the death year if known.

Step 7: Add Notes and Context

Use the Notes field in the properties panel to record relevant clinical information for each person - diagnoses, occupations, significant life events, substance use, or anything relevant to the assessment. This information does not appear on the visual genogram but is preserved in saved files.

Step 8: Arrange and Export

Drag people to fine-tune the layout, or click Auto Layout to arrange everything automatically. When you are satisfied, export your genogram as a PNG image using the Export option in the Menu. You can also save the file as a .genogram file to reopen and edit later. For a full reference of the symbols used in genograms, see our genogram symbols guide.

Tips for Better Genograms

• Keep generations on the same horizontal level for clarity
• Place the oldest sibling on the left, youngest on the right
• Use consistent spacing between family members
• Include at least three generations when possible
• Add dates and names to every person, even if approximate
• Build the genogram collaboratively with your client when appropriate - the process often surfaces information that interviews miss