Genetic Counselors

Any experience one can obtain in genetic counseling—such as an internship, volunteering, or a part-time support job—will be useful.

Genetic counselors should enjoy reading, studying the field of science, and working with technology. They also must be both good communicators and good listeners. Because they deal with controversial issues (such as adoption and abortion) when counseling clients, counselors must also be aware of their own biases and strive to be nonjudgmental. Clients faced with tough decisions such as deciding whether or not to keep an unborn child will need the full support of their counselor, no matter what their final decision may be. As a result, counselors must be able to work in stressful, emotional situations, helping their clients make informed decisions about the health and well being of their families.