Genetic Counselor

Duties and Responsibilities:

Genetic counseling is the process, by which patients or relatives, at risk of an inherited disorder, are advised of the disorder, the probability of developing or transmitting it and the options open to them in management and family planning. This complex process can be separated into diagnostic and supportive aspects.   

Ø  Interpretation of family and medical histories to assess the chance of disease occurrence or recurrence. 

Ø  Education about inheritance, testing, management, prevention, resources.

Ø  Counseling to promote informed choices and adaption to the risk or condition.

Salary: $25,000- $55,000

Education: A genetic counselor requires a Master of Science in genetic counseling. In the United States they are certified by the American board of genetic counseling.