Virginia Career VIEW

Genetic Counselors

Assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects. Provide information to other healthcare providers or to individuals and families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions. Advise individuals and families to support informed decisionmaking and coping methods for those at risk. May help conduct research related to genetic conditions or genetic counseling.

Tasks Include:

  • Provide genetic counseling in specified areas of clinical genetics such as obstetrics, pediatrics, oncology and neurology.
  • Provide counseling to patient and family members by providing information, education, or reassurance.
  • Interpret laboratory results and communicate findings to patients or physicians.
  • Discuss testing options and the associated risks, benefits and limitations with patients and families to assist them in making informed decisions.
  • Determine or coordinate treatment plans by requesting laboratory services, reviewing genetics or counseling literature, and considering histories or diagnostic data.
  • Interview patients or review medical records to obtain comprehensive patient or family medical histories, and document findings.
  • Analyze genetic information to identify patients or families at risk for specific disorders or syndromes.

    • more »


The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0; US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection.

Projections Quick View:
Virginia: +20.9%

National: No Data

 

Education

Master's Degree

Job Zone:

Five: Extensive Preparation Needed

Income Range:

No Data

Average Earnings:

 

National

No Data

State

No Data

Regional


 


 

Genetic Counselors

Description


Career Cluster: Health Science

Assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects. Provide information to other healthcare providers or to individuals and families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions. Advise individuals and families to support informed decisionmaking and coping methods for those at risk. May help conduct research related to genetic conditions or genetic counseling.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.
 

Genetic Counselors

Education


Required Level of Education
Related Work Experience
On-Site or In-Plant Training
On-the-Job Training

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.
 

Genetic Counselors

Tasks

Core Tasks Include:

Supplemental Tasks Include:

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.
 

Genetic Counselors

Tools and Technology

Tools Include:

Technologies Include:

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.
 

Genetic Counselors

Special Requirements

 

Genetic counselors can be certified through the American Board of Genetic Counseling and the National Society of Genetic Counselors.
 
American Board of Genetic Counseling:
 
Genetic counselors typically have a Master´s Degree from a graduate program specifically accredited to prepare individuals for a career as a genetic counselor who provides genetic counseling services. The training is specialized and includes coursework and hands-on supervised clinical experiences.
 
The coursework includes instruction in the following general content areas:
·                     human, medical and clinical genetics
·                     psychosocial theory and techniques
·                     social, ethical and legal issues
·                     health-care delivery systems and public health principles
·                     teaching techniques
·                     research methods
 
The supervised experiences expose students to the natural history, management and psychosocial issues associated with common genetic conditions and birth defects. It is important develop their genetic counseling skills in a variety of clinical genetics settings. It is important that students also obtain experience in teaching, laboratory methods and research.
 
The Importance of Accreditation and Certification
 
Accreditation establishes and maintains criteria for graduate-level education and clinical training of genetic counselors. ABGC recognizes programs in the US and Canada that demonstrate their graduates have achieved the knowledge and skills necessary to provide competent genetic counseling services.
 
Certification by ABGC in indicated by the acronym CGC® and ensures that an individual is qualified to provide genetic counseling services. The certification process includes verification of specialized training, documentation of clinical experiences and successfully passing both a comprehensive general genetics and genetic counseling examination.
 
National Society of Genetic Counselors:
The information below is a general summary of points that programs in genetic counseling are often asked about in applications submitted by individuals interested in graduate education in genetic counseling. The information here should only be used as a GENERAL guideline:

GPA and GRE SCORES:
Programs are looking for students that have a well-balanced application. GPA and GRE scores are indications of past academic performance and potential graduate school success. In general, successful applicants have a minimum GPA of 3.0. GRE scores in the 70th percentile range or above are considered competitive. Some programs require the GRE specialty exams as well.
ADVOCACY EXPERIENCE:
Advocacy experiences are an important aspect of the application. Advocacy experiences usually allow the applicant to obtain training in interpersonal and communication skills as well as providing an opportunity to work with the public and people in a one-to-one setting. There are numerous avenues in which qualified applicants have obtained advocacy experiences. These include, but certainly are not limited to, volunteering with a crisis hotline service, working with a pregnancy center, volunteering at shelters for domestic violence or homeless individuals, working with individuals with mental or physical disabilities, providing respite care or working in research settings interviewing participants. These are only a few such experiences that allow the applicant to appreciate the needed communication skills to work with individuals from many different backgrounds. To find advocacy opportunities in your local communities, look to the yellow pages, local hospitals, and university voluntary service organizations.
SHADOWING EXPERIENCE and INTERNSHIPS:
Observing and/or interning with a genetic counselor is always an ideal. Genetic counselors listed in the Resource Link may offer internship opportunities or be aware of various community organizations of interest. If, however, you are unable to intern with a genetic counselor, you should at least interview several counselors to obtain an understanding of their roles and responsibilities.
PERSONAL STATEMENT:
This is one of the most important aspects of your application. Your personal statement allows admissions committee members an opportunity to get to know who you are and what your goals and vision are for your professional career. This is your opportunity to tell genetic counseling programs what you know about genetic counseling, why the profession interests you and what experiences you have had to help you learn about and foster your interest in a career in genetic counseling. Please note and follow any specifications that programs have regarding length and format of the statement.
LETTERS of RECOMMENDATION:
Letters of recommendation are a crucial part of the application. Thus, choosing the appropriate persons to write letters of reference should be a priority. Letters should come from individuals who will be able to address academic capabilities, employment or volunteer performance, leadership skills, character and potential as a graduate student and professional. Undergraduate students should consider professors, academic advisors, and supervisors at employment or volunteer activities as the best sources for letters of recommendation. If it has been a few years since graduation, in addition to a reference from a professor or academic advisor, having a current employer or supervisor speak to your capabilities and performance would also be very appropriate. Individuals whose letters may not carry the same weight as those listed above are family friends or fellow students. Admissions committees may not see these individuals as being able to provide an objective assessment. Finally, many institutions provide forms to be completed by individuals providing recommendations. While forms and checklists are useful, additional written comments are usually the most helpful. If possible, ask your references to provide written comments.
ADDITIONS to the APPLICATION:
If you have been involved in any publications, thesis projects, relevant presentations or other related activities, it is important to list these on your application. Some programs may welcome copies of these materials for review. A resume or curriculum vitae (CV) may also be helpful in drawing attention to your activities, awards and other strengths.

 
 
 

For More Information, Contact:

American Board of Genetic Counseling
ABGC
PO Box 14216
Lenexa, KS 66285
Phone: 913.895.4617
Fax: 913.895.4652
http://www.abgc.net/ABGC/AmericanBoardofGeneticCounselors.asp


National Society of Genetic Counselors
401 N. Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: 312.321.6834
Fax: 312.673.6972
http://www.nsgc.org/




The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research.


 
 
 

Genetic Counselors

Knowledge


% Subject Description
94.25 Biology Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
90.25 Medicine and Dentistry Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
88.75 Psychology Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
88.00 Therapy and Counseling Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
79.75 English Language Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
79.00 Customer and Personal Service Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
75.00 Mathematics Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
65.25 Sociology and Anthropology Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures and their history and origins.
53.25 Education and Training Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
50.00 Clerical Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
50.00 Philosophy and Theology Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.


The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.


 

Genetic Counselors

Skills


% Subject Description
81.25 Reading Comprehension Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
75.00 Speaking Talking to others to convey information effectively.
72.00 Active Listening Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
68.75 Complex Problem Solving Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
68.75 Social Perceptiveness Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
68.75 Critical Thinking Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
68.75 Writing Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
65.50 Active Learning Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
62.50 Judgment and Decision Making Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
56.25 Monitoring Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
53.00 Time Management Managing one's own time and the time of others.
53.00 Coordination Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
53.00 Instructing Teaching others how to do something.
50.00 Systems Analysis Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
50.00 Service Orientation Actively looking for ways to help people.
50.00 Science Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
50.00 Mathematics Using mathematics to solve problems.


The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.


 

Genetic Counselors

Abilities


% Subject Description
81.25 Written Comprehension The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
78.00 Oral Comprehension The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
78.00 Oral Expression The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
75.00 Written Expression The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
68.75 Inductive Reasoning The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
68.75 Problem Sensitivity The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
68.75 Deductive Reasoning The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
65.50 Information Ordering The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
65.50 Speech Clarity The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
65.50 Speech Recognition The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
59.50 Near Vision The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
59.50 Category Flexibility The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
56.25 Flexibility of Closure The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
53.00 Mathematical Reasoning The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
50.00 Selective Attention The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
50.00 Fluency of Ideas The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
50.00 Originality The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.


The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.


 

Genetic Counselors

Work Activities


% Subject Description
99.25 Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
96.75 Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
94.75 Assisting and Caring for Others Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
93.50 Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
87.00 Documenting/Recording Information Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
83.75 Communicating with Persons Outside Organization Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
81.50 Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
80.75 Analyzing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
79.75 Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
77.50 Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
75.75 Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
75.75 Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
69.25 Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
67.75 Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
64.50 Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
56.50 Training and Teaching Others Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
55.75 Provide Consultation and Advice to Others Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
54.00 Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
53.25 Developing and Building Teams Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
52.50 Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
51.50 Performing Administrative Activities Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
50.75 Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
50.75 Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.


The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.


 

Genetic Counselors

Work Styles


% Subject Description
97.50 Integrity Job requires being honest and ethical.
97.50 Concern for Others Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
92.75 Dependability Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
90.25 Attention to Detail Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
85.50 Self Control Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
84.75 Cooperation Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
83.00 Social Orientation Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.
81.50 Stress Tolerance Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.
79.75 Analytical Thinking Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
77.50 Initiative Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
76.50 Adaptability/Flexibility Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
73.50 Independence Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
71.00 Achievement/Effort Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
67.75 Persistence Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
55.75 Leadership Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
51.50 Innovation Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.


The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.


 

Genetic Counselors

Work Values


% Subject Description
83.33 Relationships Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
66.67 Achievement Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
66.67 Recognition Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
61.17 Working Conditions Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
61.17 Independence Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
55.50 Support Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.


The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.


 

Genetic Counselors

Work Context


% Subject Description
100.00 Telephone How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
98.80 Face-to-Face Discussions How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
96.60 Electronic Mail How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
95.40 Letters and Memos How often does the job require written letters and memos?
94.20 Indoors, Environmentally Controlled How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
89.00 Freedom to Make Decisions How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
88.40 Spend Time Sitting How much does this job require sitting?
87.80 Importance of Being Exact or Accurate How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
87.00 Contact With Others How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
86.40 Structured versus Unstructured Work To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
85.80 Deal With External Customers How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
81.20 Work With Work Group or Team How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
79.40 Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results How do the decisions an employee makes impact the results of co-workers, clients or the company?
76.80 Frequency of Decision Making How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
76.80 Time Pressure How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
73.00 Consequence of Error How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
67.00 Physical Proximity To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
63.80 Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
61.20 Frequency of Conflict Situations How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
58.00 Level of Competition To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
57.40 Coordinate or Lead Others How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
53.60 Exposed to Disease or Infections How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
50.40 Public Speaking How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job?


The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.


 

Genetic Counselors

Job Zone Five: Extensive Preparation Needed




The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.


 
 

Genetic Counselors

Employment Projections


National 2010 2020 % Change
United States No Data No Data No Data
 
State 2008 2018 % Change
Virginia 879 1,063 + 20.9%
 
Region 2008 2018 % Change
Bay Consortium 0 0 + 0.0%
Capital Region Workforce Partnership 242 265 + 9.5%
Central VA/Region2000 0 0 + 0.0%
Crater Area 0 0 + 0.0%
Greater Peninsula 0 0 + 0.0%
Hampton Roads 0 0 + 0.0%
New River/Mt. Rogers 0 0 + 0.0%
Northern Virginia and Alexandria/Arlington 214 263 + 22.9%
Piedmont Workforce 0 0 + 0.0%
Shenandoah Valley 0 0 + 0.0%
South Central 0 0 + 0.0%
Southwestern Virginia 0 0 + 0.0%
West Piedmont 1 1 + 0.0%
Western Virginia 0 0 + 0.0%


The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Workforce Connection.


 
 

Genetic Counselors

View Videos


The following videos are available for this occupation:



The data sources for the information displayed here include: New York State Department of Labor; New Jersey Department of Labor; California Occupational Information Coordinating Committee.


 
 

Genetic Counselors

Proficiency Ratings


These proficiencies are scored on a scale from 1 to 5 with 1 being not
important to the job and 5 being extremely important to the job.

Proficiency Rating
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others 5.0
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge 5.0
Assisting and Caring for Others 5.0
Getting Information 4.5
Documenting/Recording Information 4.5
Communicating with Persons Outside Organization 4.5
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates 4.5
Analyzing Data or Information 4.0
Making Decisions and Solving Problems 4.0
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public 4.0
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships 4.0
Interacting With Computers 4.0
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work 4.0
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events 3.5
Processing Information 3.5
Training and Teaching Others 3.5
Provide Consultation and Advice to Others 3.0
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others 3.0
Developing and Building Teams 3.0
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards 3.0
Performing Administrative Activities 3.0
Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People 3.0
Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings 3.0
Thinking Creatively 3.0
Coaching and Developing Others 3.0
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others 2.5
Developing Objectives and Strategies 2.5
Scheduling Work and Activities 2.5
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates 2.5
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information 2.0
Staffing Organizational Units 2.0
Monitoring and Controlling Resources 2.0
Selling or Influencing Others 1.5
Performing General Physical Activities 1.5
Handling and Moving Objects 1.5
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material 1.0
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment 1.0
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment 1.0
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment 1.0
Controlling Machines and Processes 1.0
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment 1.0


The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.


 

Genetic Counselors

Titles



The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.


 
 

Genetic Counselors

Related Schools

There are no Related Schools at this time.