What Is a Genetic Counselor, and Why Haven’t You Heard of One?
By Sarah Upp & Natalie Samson
Unsurprisingly, most people have never heard of a genetic counselor until they work with one. Many are only introduced to the field when navigating a health concern, considering genetic testing, or trying to better understand their risk for certain conditions. That’s because genetic counselors are a small, specialized group of healthcare providers. This article outlines who we are, what we do, and why working with a genetic counselor can be so valuable.
What Is a Genetic Counselor?
A genetic counselor is a healthcare provider who specializes in translating and interpreting genetic information. Genetics can be complex, nuanced, and sometimes overwhelming, and our role is to break that information down into something clear, meaningful, and actionable so you can make informed decisions about your health.
Genetic counselors are also uniquely trained in psychosocial counseling, meaning we don’t just explain the science; we help you process the emotional impact of genetic information. Whether it’s navigating uncertainty, understanding risk, or making decisions about testing or next steps, we’re here to support you as a whole person.
This combination of genetic science + counseling is what makes the field unique.
Not All Genetic Testing Is Created Equal
One of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of our role is helping determine the right test, for the right person, at the right time.
With the rise of direct-to-consumer testing and expanding test options, it’s easy to assume that more testing is always better, but that’s not necessarily true. Without guidance, there’s a real risk of:
Spending money on testing that isn’t relevant to your situation
Choosing a test that isn’t comprehensive enough
Receiving results that are confusing or don’t fully answer your questions
Genetic counselors help ensure that testing is intentional, personalized, and clinically appropriate, so you get answers that are actually useful.
How Are Genetic Counselors Trained?
Genetic counselors undergo extensive, specialized training.
To become certified, genetic counselors must complete a master’s degree from a program accredited by the American Board of Genetic Counseling. During this training, students complete:
Rigorous academic coursework in genetics, genomics, and testing technologies
Extensive clinical training (typically hundreds of patient-facing hours)
Dedicated education in counseling techniques and communication skills
While many healthcare providers receive limited exposure to genetics during their training, genetic counselors dive deeply into:
Different categories of genetic conditions
Evolving testing technologies
Risk assessment and interpretation
The emotional and psychological aspects of care
After completing their training, genetic counselors must pass a national board certification exam administered by the American Board of Genetic Counseling. And it doesn’t stop there, genetic counselors are required to participate in ongoing continuing education to maintain their certification and stay up to date with this rapidly evolving field.
How Is Working With a Genetic Counselor Different?
While other healthcare providers may order genetic testing, the experience is often very different.
Genetic counselors:
Have specialized expertise in genetics and testing options
Spend more time educating and guiding patients (especially when it comes to questions about data protection and genetic discrimination concerns)
Provide personalized interpretation, not just raw results
Help you understand what results mean for you and your family
Support you in making informed, confident decisions
We’re also trained to work closely with other healthcare providers, so your genetic information doesn’t exist in a vacuum and is thoughtfully incorporated into your overall care.
Why It Matters
Genetic testing can be incredibly helpful, but only when it’s used thoughtfully. Working with a genetic counselor means you’re not just getting raw data or potentially confusing information. You’re getting clear answers, real context, and a plan that actually makes sense for you.
What Makes Golden Genetics Care Different
At Golden Genetics, we’re proud to be the only integrative genetic counseling practice of our kind. We actively pursue advanced training in nutrigenomics and integrative care and stay current with the evolving science, so we remain at the forefront of evidence-based integrative care. We take a true whole-person approach.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re exploring genetic testing for the first time or looking for guidance on results you already have, our team is here to help.
Book a logistics call here!
Curious if genetic testing would be right for you? Take the quiz below!
