Training genetic counselors

Training of genetic counselors may be broadly classified into basic science, genetics, clinical, laboratory, counseling, communication, sociology and cultural aspects. A basic knowledge in biochemistry, physiology and embryology is required for the understanding of the basis of genetic disorders and congenital malformations. Principles of genetics (modes of inheritance, calculating recurrence risks, variable penetrance and expression), and cell biology (structure and function of DNA, RNA and protein, transcription, translation) are important for understanding the basis of the disorders and in conveying this information to patients/families.

Genetic counselors should be knowledgeable on the clinical aspects of the most frequently encountered genetic disorders, their genetics and clinical management. This includes, cytogenetic, biochemical disorders, and adult disorders with a genetic or a multifactorial etiology.

Basic knowledge of the laboratory aspects related to cytogenetics, biochemical and molecular genetic testing is valuable in explaining them and their limitations to the patients.

Equipping genetic counselors with counseling techniques, communication skills and developing an appreciation for the social and cultural aspects of the population to be served are all valuable to successful genetic counseling.

Faculty members may be drawn from the existing faculty in the medical colleges and other departments in the teaching institutions. The curriculum should be designed with special focus on how the information will be useful in understanding and managing genetic disorders.

The importance of access to literature cannot be emphasized enough. Being a relatively new discipline, there is constant addition of information to the existing literature. The faculty and students should have access to the most current literature.

Internships in a variety of clinics where genetic counseling is conducted is invaluable for the training of genetic counselors. Supervised counseling by the trainees is also important for their professional development.