Genetic Counselors

Genetic counselors are healthcare professionals who assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, provide information and support to families who have members with birth defects or genetic disorders, interpret complex medical information and test results, and help families understand the options available for dealing with genetic risks. They also work closely with other healthcare providers and may be involved in conducting research.

Education / Training

To become a Genetic Counselor, individuals typically need a master's degree in genetic counseling or a related field. This involves completing coursework in genetics, counseling, psychology, and other relevant subjects, along with supervised clinical experience in genetic counseling settings. While a bachelor's degree is required for admission to most genetic counseling programs, high school completion is also necessary as a foundational educational milestone. Therefore, both high school and college education are prerequisites for pursuing a career as a Genetic Counselor. Training for Genetic Counselors involves completing a master's program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). These programs generally take about two years to complete and include coursework in areas such as human genetics, counseling techniques, ethics, and research methods. In addition to classroom instruction, students gain practical experience through supervised clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, working directly with patients and families to assess genetic risks, provide counseling, and facilitate informed decision-making regarding genetic testing and healthcare management. Upon graduation, individuals may also pursue board certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) to enhance their professional credentials.