Edvotek Career Exploration Podcast: Becoming a Genetic Counselor

Transcript:

 Edvotek Career Exploration Podcast: Becoming a Genetic Counselor

Hello, and welcome to the Edvotek Career Exploration Podcast. Today, we explore the fascinating role of genetic counselors in medicine and life sciences research. 

Genetics is the study of genes and heredity, which looks at the way traits are passed down from one generation to the next and how these genes work in various biological processes. Genetic research has helped scientists to understand the genetic basis of diseases, to find potential therapeutic targets, and to develop groundbreaking medications and therapies. 

As our understanding of genetics continues to advance, there is a rising need for professionals who can analyze genetic information, identify specific mutations or variations, and provide key insights into a patient’s health. This information helps individuals better understand their illness and consider personalized treatment options. One key career in this field is genetic counseling, a rapidly growing profession in medical genetics.

Genetic counseling is a specialized field that educates and supports individuals and families at risk for or affected by genetic conditions. Genetic counselors combine their knowledge of genetics with expertise in communication to empower people to make informed decisions. They provide guidance, support, and information to help patients understand the complexities of genetics and healthcare choices.

To become a genetic counselor, you’ll need a solid foundation in biological sciences.  Typically, this involves earning a bachelor’s degree in genetics or a related field, followed by a master’s degree in genetic counseling from an accredited program. In most states, you’ll also need board certification. In addition to academic qualifications, you’ll need good people skills, empathy, and the ability to effectively communicate complex genetic information to have success in this field.

With genetic testing becoming more common and personalized healthcare on the rise, the demand for skilled and compassionate genetic counselors is expected to grow. According to the 2021 Bureau of Labor Statistics report, jobs for genetic counselors are projected to grow 18 percent by 2031, far surpassing the average growth rate. The median pay for genetic counselors is about eighty thousand dollars per year.

There are also various subspecialties within genetic counseling that offer opportunities for professionals to focus on specific areas. Let’s look at some of these subspecialties within this field.

Clinical Genetic Counselors work directly with patients and families, to help them understand genetic conditions, the risks of inherited diseases, and the available testing options. They provide emotional support, explain complex genetic concepts in simple terms,  and help individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

Prenatal Genetic Counselors help expecting parents by discussing potential risks and genetic conditions that could affect the developing fetus. They help interpret prenatal genetic test results and guide families through difficult decisions about pregnancy management and planning.

Cancer Genetic Counselors play a vital role in the field of oncology, or study and treatment of cancer. They focus on assessing the risk of hereditary cancers based on genetic test results and family history. Cancer genetic counselors educate people, facilitate genetic testing, and help individuals understand their risk, prevention options, and treatment implications.

No matter of the subspecialty, genetic counseling offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on individuals and families. Genetic Counselors actively contribute to advancing our understanding of genetic conditions and developing new therapies. They work closely with scientists, actively participate in research studies, and translate complex genetic findings into useful information for patients and their families.

That’s a wrap for today’s Career Exploration Podcast! We hope you enjoyed learning about genetic counseling and its career prospects. Stay tuned for future episodes where we explore more careers in biotechnology.