Genetic Counseling

"Genetic counselors are health professionals who work as members of a health care team providing information and support to families who have members with birth defects or genetic disorders, to individuals who themselves are affected with a genetic condition and to families who may be at risk for a variety of inherited problems. Genetic counselors identify families at risk, obtain the family medical history, obtain and interpret medical records and interpret information about the genetic condition. Inheritance patterns are analyzed and risks of recurrence and available options are reviewed with the family or individual. In addition to providing supportive counseling to families, genetic counselors serve as patient advocates and refer individuals and families to community or state support services."

-American Society of Human Genetics

Career Information

• American Board of Genetic Counseling
• Genetic Centers, Clinics, and Departments

Schools

• Genetic Counseling Programs
• Genetic Counseling Training Programs Accredited by the ABGC