What Does a Genetic Counselor Do?

What Does a Genetic Counselor Do?

Genetic counselors work in a range of settings, such as hospitals, health care centers and private practices. They offer education and emotional support to people with hereditary diseases and other health conditions.

Genetic counselors must obtain licensure from their state in order to practice counseling services. To become licensed, genetic counselors must complete a master’s degree program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC) and pass a national certification exam.

Genetic counselors’ primary responsibilities involve assessing family risk for hereditary diseases and suggesting appropriate testing. Furthermore, they assist patients in comprehending the results of genetic screening tests and explaining how it could impact their future prospects.

They provide support to those who have received difficult genetic testing results. They translate the results into language that is easier for their clients to comprehend, and then create a plan for addressing any concerns raised.

Genetic counselors often act as intermediaries between patients and other medical professionals, such as physicians or nurse practitioners. Their role requires excellent communication abilities and an intimate knowledge of genetics and its medical ramifications.

Genetic counselors are becoming more and more in demand. There are various reasons why people seek them out, from expecting parents who need to follow up on a diagnosis to children with health issues that could be genetic in origin.