Genetic Counselor

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Genetic Counselor

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Duties and Responsibilities:

Genetic Counselors work with patients and families who have genetic, or inherited, disorders and birth defects.  They also counsel people who are at risk for these problems.  Genetic counselors often:

• ·         They counsel families about their possible illnesses and what they can do prevent them from surfacing 
• ·         Examine family histories to determine the likelihood of genetic problems.
• ·         Assist patients and families in reaching decisions about genetic disorders that do not conflict with their religious or ethical values.
• ·        They do research on different genetic disorders
• ·         Educate medical professionals and the general public about genetic disorders.

Average Salary:  $25,000 - $55,000

Educational Requirements:

Students interested in becoming genetic counselors should take a challenging high school curriculum that emphasizes science and mathematics.

A master's degree is required, and most graduate programs require a strong undergraduate background in biology, chemistry, and behavioral science.  Many states require genetic counselors to be certified.

I would not like to become a genetic counselor because I find that very upsetting that these kids get a disease that they didn’t even bring upon themselves they had no choice they were born with it. The patients that would walk into my office , I would feel very bad, its to emotional for me to work in.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT!!!