Genetic counsellors guide people and families through the complicated nature of a genetic conditions such as cystic fibrosis, cancer and mental illness. The Star spoke with Riyana Babul-Hirji, a genetic counsellor at Sick Kids Hospital, about the job. <\/p>\n
Q: Whatdoes a genetic counsellor do? <\/p>\n
A: Once a diagnosis is made, genetic counsellors help the family understand the genetic basis of that condition. Often one of the underlying feelings with parents is guilt, feeling like its something that they did that caused this in their child. So some of what we do is explain that its not something theyve done, its something that was inherited and we cant control it. <\/p>\n
Another part of what we do is to keep families updated in terms of research. And if they are thinking about another pregnancy, what their options are and risks are. We also address any psychosocial effects as well as being advocates for them for resources and other things they may need. And we look at the implications for family members and how they go about communicating this with those family members. <\/p>\n
Q: What kind of training do you need? <\/p>\n
A: All genetic counsellors have a masters of science in medical genetics and genetic counselling. We work collaboratively with clinical geneticists as well as a multidisciplinary team. <\/p>\n
Q: Whats the most common myth about genetic counselling? <\/p>\n
A: I teach a first year course in genetic counselling (at U of T) and I ask the students on the first day of class, when they told people they were thinking of becoming a genetic counsellor, what was the reaction? <\/p>\n
The response is often that they dont quite understand what a genetic counsellor does, and the first thing they think of is eugenics. That were here helping parents to have that designer baby. Its not that all. Its helping families adjust to the genetic condition that they may be at risk for and help them make choices that are right for them. <\/p>\n
Q: How do you break bad news to people? <\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Read more: <\/p>\n
A genetic counsellor share\u2019s the job\u2019s highs and lows<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Genetic counsellors guide people and families through the complicated nature of a genetic conditions such as cystic fibrosis, cancer and mental illness. The Star spoke with Riyana Babul-Hirji, a genetic counsellor at Sick Kids Hospital, about the job. Q: Whatdoes a genetic counsellor do? Continue reading