Imagine a biology teacher teaming up with a therapist, and you’ll start to picture what a genetic counselor does. A genetic counselor combs through a patient’s family tree to highlight potential health risks. For example, a person with a family history of cancer might meet with a genetic counselor to determine their risk for similar diagnoses. If a patient decides to proceed with a genetic test, the counselor coordinates laboratory work – usually a blood test – for a clearer picture of any genetic risks. Next comes the interpretation, where the counselor examines test results and any identified genetic mutations that might explain current traits or syndromes, or that might predict future ones. The counselor then sits with the patient and their family members to explain the findings and their ramifications. Genetic counselors also explain how the results might change the level or type of health care needed. For example, patients with newly diagnosed disorders may require more frequent monitoring or need to see a specialist for evaluation and follow-up.

Joy Larsen Haidle, a genetic counselor with the North Memorial Health Cancer Center in Robbinsdale, Minnesota, and a past president of the National Society of Genetic Counselors, says the profession is a "great blend of science, critical thinking, psychology and counseling." If patients are considering genetic testing for a certain disorder, they should consider whether the information will help them protect themselves or better plan for the future. Patients should ask themselves how the results could impact their future plans before proceeding with testing. This is where genetic counselors combine soft skills and knowledge to help patients see the whole picture. "This conversation helps a patient feel more empowered with the information rather than a gene or the cancer being in control," she says.

The first genetic counselors graduated with master’s degrees in 1971 from Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, New York. They went on to work with the prenatal population, assessing genetic conditions in the womb. Since then, the profession has grown rapidly with significant advances in genomics and laboratory technology. These advances have increased the number of tests genetic counselors genetic counselors administer and interpret.

The increased awareness that celebrities like Angelina Jolie have brought to the benefits of using genetic counseling as a preventive health measure has also advanced the profession. Larsen Haidle says there are roles for counselors in any subspecialty, from psychiatry to cardiology.

Genetic counselors must obtain their undergraduate degree and then earn at least a master’s degree in genetics or genetic counseling from an accredited program. Many states also require counselors to be licensed, which typically includes certification (though specific requirements vary by state). Certification is available through the American Board of Genetic Counseling. To achieve and maintain this certification, genetic counselors must pass an exam and maintain sufficient continuing education credits.