What is a Genetic Counselor?

One of genetic counselors main priorities is educating their patients so that they are informed and feel empowered to make their decisions. Each session includes the basics of genetics to provide patients with background context to better help explain concepts, like particular conditions or testing options throughout the appointment. 

"Our bodies are made of millions and millions of cells, and in each of those cells there are structures called chromosomes. If you were to unwind a chromosome, you would find long strands of DNA, or our bodies instruction manual. Within the DNA strands there are sections, called genes, which make proteins to allow our bodies to function and grow. We expect that every individual has 2 copies of each gene, with one from Mom and one from Dad." 

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/genetic-counselors.htm#tab-1 

After completing a Master's of Genetic Counseling program, GCs are able to work in a variety of settings. Most commonly they work in clinical workspaces, with 43% working in hospitals, 18% working in physician offices, and 8% working in outpatient centers. The remaining 11% work within education or labs to teach our future GCs and to grow our understanding and applications of genetic information. The options are vast with one degree. 

The market for any job can fluctuate, however, genetic counseling is projected to grow 16% in the next decade! This level of growth is much higher than the average; other healthcare jobs have an 11% growth prediction while all other occupations have a 4% growth predicition. It is expected that approximately 300 GC positions will open each year between 2023-2033.

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/genetic-counselors.htm 

Nearly 90% of genetic counselors are satisfied in their careers! While it can be a stressful field, the chance for career mobility is high and GCs enjoy interacting and supporting their patients! 

Based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2024 Median Pay for genetic counselors was $98,910 per year, or $47.55 per hour. This salary is competitive, especially when compared to the median annual wage for all workers, which is $49,500.