Genetic Counsellor

Genetic Counsellors work with individuals and families to provide information and counselling about hereditary conditions that may affect themselves or their future children. Genetic counsellors work with people to gain understanding and adjustment to a genetic diagnosis and facilitate decision making processes. Genetic Counsellors work in multidisciplinary teams which include clinical geneticists, nurses, social workers and dieticians in clinical genetics units in a range of areas including prenatal, paediatric and adult genetics, cancer genetics and predictive testing.

Genetic Counsellors must complete a Master of Genetic Counselling from a program accredited by the Human Genetics Society of Australasia. A strong interest and capacity for understanding complex scientific information is necessary. A non-judgemental attitude and the ability to develop strong counselling skills is required.