Genetic Counsellors are Allied Health Professionals with specific training in human genetics, counselling and health communication. In Australia, genetic counsellors are trained and certified by the Human Genetics Society of Australasia.
Genetic counselling is a communication process to help you understand your genetic risks and make decisions about your health. There are many different genetic tests to choose from, and genetic counsellors can discuss the pros and cons of different genetic tests, if a genetic test will answer your questions, and if genetic testing is right for you and your family.
Genetic test results aren’t always black and white. Genetic counsellors work with you and with your doctors to help you manage your genetic risk and make sure that you get the right care.
You don’t have to know if you want to have a genetic test to see a genetic counsellor. A genetic counsellor can help you to decide if or when genetic testing will be right for you. Even if you don’t want to have a genetic test, you might still want to talk to a genetic counsellor. They can give you accurate information to help you understand the risks for you and your family, and discuss what you can do about them.
Here are some other local resources about genetic counsellors and genetic counselling:
Allied Health Professions Australia-Genetic Counselling
Australasian Society of Genetic Counsellors-Frequently asked questions