Introduction to Genetic Counseling

Catalog description

Genetic counseling students will be oriented to the profession through a review of the history of genetic counseling and basic tenets of the field. Topics covered include medical terminology, pedigree construction, the structure of genetic counseling sessions, discussion of the scope of practice and disability rights, instruction in obtaining family pedigrees, review of genetic testing practices, and the National Society of Genetic Counselors' Code of Ethics. Students will gain an appreciation for the lived experience of individuals with genetic diseases by reading memoirs, reviewing online support groups, watching videos, and performing role plays. The course will provide experiential learning about advocacy groups for patients and their families through first-hand interviews. Students will engage in role play scenarios throughout the course.