Genetics 1: The role of genetic counselling

Supervisor

Margaret Sahhar

Department

Genetic Health Services Victoria

Email

margaret.sahhar@ghsv.org.au

Objectives

1. What is the specific role of a genetic counsellor in a multidisciplinary genetics clinic team: (a) in a tertiary referral hospital? (b) In a regional genetics clinic?
2. A medical geneticist and a genetic counsellor work together as a team. What is the difference between their roles?
3. Non-directive counselling is considered best practice in genetic counselling. Discuss the issues around non-directive counselling and express your opinions with respect to whether this is a realistic goal
4. Many issues are common to counselling in a medical setting. What issues are specific to counselling for genetic conditions?

Resources and learning opportunities

1. Senior social worker, Margaret Sahhar (Coordinator, Graduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling), Genetic Health Services Victoria
2. Spend time observing a genetics clinic. Key contact: Ivan Macciocca, Genetic Counsellor
3. Literature reviews
4. 'Issues in Genetic Counselling' CD-ROM - Sylvia Metcalfe (Genetics Education and Health Research, MCRI) and Margaret Sahhar
5. Journal of Genetic Counselling - see Margaret Sahhar
6. If possible, spend time in at least one session of the Counselling subject of the Graduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling course (Thursday mornings). Must arrange first with Margaret Sahhar