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Countless medical conditions have a genetic basis, including certain types of cancer, birth defects, and developmental disorders. Fortunately, thanks to advancements in genomic medicine and genetic testing, it’s easier than ever for people to explore their DNA and make more informed healthcare decisions based on their unique circumstances.

In the age of personalized medicine, genetic counseling is an increasingly crucial aspect of holistic care. Genetic counselors help people understand how their genetic makeup may affect their health, or that of their children, and provide guidance and support to those coping with a genetic condition.

Individuals pursuing a career in healthcare , whether as a genetic counselor or in a clinical role, should understand what genetic counseling is and its implications for healthcare now and in the future. 

Genetic Counseling Definition

Genetic counseling refers to the guidance and support provided by licensed healthcare professionals to individuals who have or may have a genetic condition.

During genetic consultations, genetic counselors collect information from their clients—either individuals or families—about their medical and family histories. Counselors assess this information, help clients determine their risk of developing or passing on certain genetic conditions, and whether genetic testing may be necessary to diagnose, confirm, or rule out a condition. 

Genetic counselors also evaluate and interpret clients’ test results with them and assist them in making healthcare decisions based on the results. Additionally, counselors may provide psychological and emotional support to help clients adjust to their condition. 

Although a genetic consultation is typically with a genetic counselor, other professionals—such as nurses, psychologists, and social workers—can also provide genetic counseling. 

When Is Genetic Counseling Needed?

Individuals pursue genetic counseling for a variety of reasons. Many people seek out the assistance of genetic counselors prior to or during pregnancy to determine their risk of passing on a condition to their child. Others may see a genetic counselor to learn about their own chances of developing a genetic condition. 

There are several life stages when a genetic consultation may be beneficial. 

Planning for Pregnancy

A person may seek genetic counseling before they become pregnant to discuss issues that may affect their child or their ability to get pregnant, such as:

• A genetic condition that runs in their family or their partner’s family
• A history of infertility, miscarriages, or stillbirths 
• Assisted reproductive technology options, such as the viability of in vitro fertilization (IVF)

During Pregnancy

Genetic counseling during pregnancy can help expectant mothers and families determine what types of genetic tests they may want to take while pregnant and uncover potential issues or conditions that could affect their baby during infancy or childhood, including:

• Prior pregnancies or children affected by a birth defect or genetic condition 
• Abnormal results from a blood test, ultrasound, or amniocentesis 
• A maternal infection, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Childhood

Families may seek genetic counseling after their child is born to address health concerns, particularly if their child is exhibiting signs and symptoms of a disorder that might be genetic, such as:

• A birth defect
• Autism spectrum disorder or another developmental disability
• Vision or hearing issues

Adulthood

Genetic counseling can also be beneficial for adults who have symptoms of a genetic condition or a family history of one, including:

• A certain type of hereditary cancer, such as breast or ovarian cancer 
• Muscular dystrophy 
• A blood disorder, such as sickle cell disease
• A movement disorder, such as Huntington’s disease

What Does a Genetic Counselor Do?

Genetic counselors collect information about clients to determine their risk or their children’s risk of developing a genetic condition, such as a birth defect or a certain type of cancer. Based on their analysis, they may recommend that clients undergo genetic testing to gain further insight. 

While genetic counselors are not responsible for testing, they can advise clients on what genetic tests they may want to take based on their family and medical history. They then interpret the results of those tests with clients, and sometimes their families. 

Depending on the results of the genetic tests, counselors may provide their clients with guidance on potential next steps and help them make certain healthcare decisions, including about further testing and treatment options. They may also refer clients to specialists or support groups that focus on their condition. 

Genetic counselors have several responsibilities, often including the following:

• Collecting and evaluating clients’ family and medical histories by conducting interviews, meeting with physicians, and reviewing medical records
• Analyzing clients’ genetic information to identify their hereditary risks
• Educating clients about their genetic risks and inherited medical conditions
• Discussing genetic testing options with clients as well as their associated risks, benefits, and limitations
• Helping clients understand their test results
• Providing psychological and emotional support to clients

What genetic counselors do on a day-to-day basis can vary depending on their area of specialization. Some counselors focus on a particular area of genetic counseling, such as prenatal, pediatric, or cancer. They may also work in specific fields, like cardiovascular health, genomic medicine, or psychiatry.

How to Become a Genetic Counselor

Genetic counselors must possess a diverse and specialized skill set, including expertise in biology and genetics as well as advanced interpersonal competencies like empathy. Developing these critical skills takes years of education and experience, and practicing as a counselor typically requires state licensure. The following are the most important milestones aspiring genetic counselors need to clear. 

Education

Genetic counselors typically need a master’s degree in genetic counseling or a related field from an accredited program. To qualify for admission to a master’s program, students generally need to hold a bachelor’s degree in an adjacent field, such as medical humanities . Undergraduate coursework in genetics, biochemistry, psychology, and statistics, for example, can help prepare students for the more advanced studies in a genetic counseling master’s program. 

Experience

In addition to studying medical topics in the classroom, aspiring genetic counselors often complete supervised clinical rotations so they can gain experience working with real patients and clients in different environments. This experience can help them develop interpersonal competencies like compassion and communication that are essential for counselors. Individuals can gain further experience through entry-level roles or volunteer work. 

Licensing

The vast majority of states either require genetic counselors to be licensed or are in the process of passing legislation to require licensure. While requirements vary by state, licensure typically requires being certified. The American Board of Genetic Counseling, for example, offers the certified genetic counselor credential. To maintain certification, counselors need to complete continuing education courses.

Genetic Counselor Salary and Job Outlook

Genetic counselors play an increasingly important role in healthcare, especially as personalized medicine becomes more widespread. Consequently, as demand for their services grows, employment opportunities for genetic counselors will rise.  

Employment of genetic counselors is projected to grow by 16% between 2022 and 2032, far outpacing the average growth projected for all occupations (3%), according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). 

Several factors are expected to drive this growth, including rising interest in personalized medicine and ongoing technological advances in the field of genetics. Additionally, the number and types of lab tests that genetic counselors evaluate—many of which are covered by health insurance—is increasing, which should further boost demand for genetic counseling. 

In light of this demand as well as the high level of skill the role demands, genetic counselors are generally well compensated. The BLS reports that the median annual wage for genetic counselors was $95,770 in 2023. A number of factors, including the industry in which they work and their level of experience, can influence an individual’s earnings. 

According to the BLS, the following were the median annual wages for genetic counselors at the highest-paying employers:

• Outpatient care centers: $124,260
• Medical and diagnostic laboratories: $107,970
• Hospitals: $94,760
• Physicians’ offices: $93,690
• Colleges, universities, and professional schools: $87,870

Pursue a Career in Genetic Counseling With a Healthcare and Medical Humanities Degree

As genetic testing becomes increasingly accessible, more people will look to it as a way to personalize their healthcare. Genetic counselors provide a vital service, helping clients understand their genetic makeup and its impact on their health and that of their loved ones. 

If you’re interested in understanding genetic counseling and its growing role in healthcare, explore the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Healthcare and Medical Humanities program from Wilson College Online. The program’s focus on empathy and narrative medicine—the practice of integrating patients’ unique stories and experiences into their care—aligns neatly with the tenets of genetic counseling.

Discover how Wilson College Online can set you on the path to a career in this rewarding field. 

Recommended Readings

How to Become an Addiction Counselor

Occupational Therapy Assistant: Salary and Job Description

What Is Medical Humanities?

Sources:

American Board of Genetic Counseling, About the CGC Credential

Cleveland Clinic, Genetic Counseling

MedLinePlus, What Is a Genetic Consultation?

National Human Genome Research Institute, Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing FAQ

National Human Genome Research Institute, Genetic Counseling

National Society of Genetic Counselors, Becoming a Genetic Counselor

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Genetic Counselors

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Genetic Counseling