For Some Counselors, It's in the Genes

Genetic counselors provide information and support to individuals with genetic disorders, as well as those who may be at risk of inheriting a genetic condition. They also study their patients' family history to identify inheritance patterns. They often work in prenatal medicine and oncology. Many genetic counselors are employed by health-care providers such as hospitals and physicians with private practices. Others work for universities or genetic-testing companies.

Genetic counselors work as members of a health care team, providing information and support to families who have members with birth defects or genetic disorders and to families who may be at risk for a variety of inherited conditions. They identify families at risk, investigate the problem present in the family, interpret information about the disorder, analyze inheritance patterns and risks of recurrence and review available options with the family.

Salaries start in the upper $40,000s for recent graduates, says Steven Keiles, president of the National Society of Genetic Counselors. The median pay for genetic counselors is $63,000, though experienced professionals can earn upward of $130,000, he says. Genetic counselors typically work weekdays during normal business hours. Traditional health-care packages and retirement-savings benefits are common. If you work for a university, typical tuition-discount benefits may be available.

Genetic counselors can specialize in more than one area during their career. "You can literally change gears midstream and go from prenatal to cancer," says Mr. Keiles. Genetic counselors also can move into management, do research or interpret test data. Counselors also interact with people, something many science-based professionals don't get to do.

A master's degree in genetic counseling is a common prerequisite, says Mr. Keiles, also vice president and director of genetic services at Ambry Genetics Corp., a testing company in Aliso Viejo, Calif. At least 30 universities offer the program. Many employers also require certification earned through a professional group such as the American Board of Genetic Counseling. Genetic counselors are health professionals with specialized graduate degrees and experience in the areas of medical genetics and counseling. Most enter the field from a variety of disciplines, including biology, genetics, nursing, psychology, public health, and social work.

Despite the sour economy, employment opportunities for genetic counselors are abundant, says Mr. Keiles. "There are more jobs than there are graduates," he explains. The caveat: Job seekers need to be flexible in terms of location because opportunities are spread throughout the country. Some areas are more competitive than others, he says. The field is expected to grow by more than 20% in the next seven years, according to the Labor Dept. The National Society of Genetic Counselors lists job openings at its web site:

Source: Wall Street Journal, Sarah E. Needleman, 2/17/09