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Genetic Counselor

A genetic counselor works as a member of a health care team for a patient.  Genetic counselors work with families who have a member with birth defects or genetic disorders and provide the family with the necessary information, resources and support they may need.  Genetic counselors often work at high risk or specialty prenatal clinics, pediatric care centers and adult genetic centers.  The counselors work with the affected patients and their families to provide education about testing, prevention and inheritance, as well as provide strategies for dealing with and adapting to the risk or condition, if necessary. 

Genetic counselors usually have their Master of Science degree in genetic counseling and come from a background of a variety of fields including, nursing, biology, genetics, public health, psychology, and social work.


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