Genetic
Counseling as a Profession
The
National Society of Genetic
Counselors (NSGC) defines genetic counselors as:
"health professionals with specialized graduate degrees
and experience in the areas of medical genetics and counseling.
They work as members of a health care team, providing information
and support to families who may be at risk for a variety
of inherited conditions. They identify families at risk,
investigate the problem present in the family, interpret
information about the disorder, analyze inheritance patterns
and risk of recurrence, and review available options for
the family. Genetic counselors also provide supportive counseling
to families, serve as patient advocates, and refer individuals
and families to community or state support services. They
serve as educators and resource people for other health
care professionals and for the general public. Some counselors
also work in administrative capacities. Many engage in research
activities related to the field of medical genetics and
genetic counseling."
