Genetic Counselor

Duties and Responsibilities:

Genetic  Counselor’s work in hospitals’, universities, laboratories, and private clinics. They trained to analyze genetic data and communicate risk factors to patients and their families. A family history of cancer, muscular dystrophy or cystic fibrosis might cause an individual to seek genetic counseling. Tasked with identifying potential predisposition for physical and mental disease and disorders, genetic counselors’ are trained in the following:

·         Analyze patient histories

·         Provide genetic testing

·         Perform genetic risk calculation

·         Educate families about potential health risks

·         Help patients to cope with a diagnosis

Average Salary: $49,645- $65,158

Educational Requirements:

Those interested in the field must complete a master's degree program in genetic counseling. Due to the small number of accredited programs, graduate schools often have a highly selective admission process. Students can prepare for admission with undergraduate courses in chemistry, biology, genetics and psychology. Schools may require or strongly recommend paid or volunteer experience prior to enrolling in the professional program. Graduate program coursework requires clinical training through internships where students learn about the following:

• Molecular genetics
• Genetic screening
• Counseling ethics and techniques
• Research methods
• Prenatal diagnosis
• Population studies
• Birth defects

CHOOSE THE RIGHT!!!!!!

I would not like to be a genetic counselor because the thought of help someone cope makes my feel powerless