What Do Genetic Counselors Learn on the Job? A Qualitative Assessment of Professional Development Outcomes

Self Cite

Although transitional challenges exist in many professions, no research has explicitly investigated challenges novice genetic counselors encounter as they enter the workforce. This qualitative study explored challenges genetic counselors face when transitioning from student to practicing counselor and their strategies for managing them. Fifteen novice genetic counselors (~1–2 years post‐degree experience), recruited via the National Society of Genetic Counselors, participated in semi‐structured phone interviews. Interview questions explored professional and personal challenges faced in their first 6 months, how challenges changed over time, strategies they used to manage these challenges, and resources they thought would have been helpful to have from the beginning. Inductive analysis of interview data yielded themes including: interpersonal challenges with colleagues (e.g. handling differences of opinion); intrapersonal challenges (e.g. lacking confidence, not feeling ready to ‘go solo’); patient care challenges (e.g. being viewed as young/inexperienced); and logistical challenges (e.g. billing). Personal challenges included moving to a new location, preparing for boards, establishing a work‐life balance, and factors associated with one's significant others. Strategies to address challenges included seeking support and guidance from experienced genetic counselors and peers, using peer supervision groups, and involvement in community activities. Participants recommended connecting with recent graduates through national and local programs to facilitate the transition from student to genetic counselor. Results suggest the ‘transition years’ pose a variety of professional and personal challenges. Support and guidance are key to evolving from student to practicing counselor. Creating venues to help novice counselors make connections with colleagues and other recent graduates may be beneficial.

Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 93%

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 69%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

See 1 more Smart Citation

An exploration of novice genetic counselors’ transitional challenges: Commencement is just the beginning

Ramachandra¹,

Veach

LeRoy

et al. 2019

Self Cite

“…The correct responses varied between 70 and 89 % across the four scenarios. Yet, regardless of recent graduates' actual ability to interpret results, their perceptions may hinder their inclination to become involved in PGT in the future (Runyon et al 2010). Therefore, results of this study suggest that although recent graduates believe genetic counselors will play a role in interpreting PGT results in the future, further training is indicated in order to help genetic counselors feel more prepared to provide this service.…”

Section: Future Rolesmentioning

confidence: 82%

The Incorporation of Predictive Genomic Testing into Genetic Counseling Programs

Noss¹,

Mills²,

Callanan³

2014

This study explored whether genetic counseling programs are incorporating instruction about the applications and techniques of predictive genomic testing (PGT) based on student recollection, and whether this is perceived as adequate by those students. For the purpose of this study, PGT was defined as the use of genome-based testing to assess a person's risk, or susceptibility, of developing a disorder with either a known or suspected genetic component. Surveys from 114 graduates were analyzed. The majority of respondents indicated that PGT was covered in their curriculum including methodology, information generated, benefits, risks, limitations, and impact on the field of genetic counseling. A statistically significant increase in incorporating information about PGT as a whole from 2008 to 2011 was also reported. The majority of respondents reported that coverage of PGT prepared them for the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) board exam (80.6 %), to interpret PGT test results (60.2 %) and to identify clinical situations warranting testing (53.1 %). Although the majority of respondents indicated learning about a wide variety of aspects surrounding PGT, many recent graduates indicated their training was less likely to cover aspects essential for the clinical application of PGT. Therefore, genetic counseling programs should place a greater emphasis on these skills, and the development of continuing education opportunities aimed at increasing genetic counselors abilities to interpret and discuss PGT tests and identify clinical situations warranting such testing may be helpful.

“…In general, fewer challenges in this study were reported by genetic counsellors who had experience working as a genetic counsellor before they entered private practice. Previous research has demonstrated that professional development and working experience help genetic counsellors to expand their knowledge, build skills, and gain confidence in their judgement (Callanan and Grosse 2016;Runyon et al 2010;Zahm et al 2016). Stronger connections built over time with professional colleagues also contribute to the ability of some genetic counsellors to better manage challenging events (Zahm et al 2016).…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Genetic Counsellors and Private Practice: Professional Turbulence and Common Values

Collis¹,

Gaff

Wake

et al. 2017

Genetic counsellors face tensions between past and future identities: between established values and goals, and a broadening scope of settings and activities. This study examines the advent of genetic counsellors in private practice in Australia and New Zealand from the perspectives of the small numbers working in this sector and those who have only worked in public practice. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 genetic counsellors who had experience in private practice, and 14 genetic counsellors without private sector experience. Results demonstrated that circumstantial and personal factors can mitigate the challenges experienced and the amount of support desired by those who had established a private practice, and those who were employed by private companies. Notably, most participants with private sector experience perceived themselves to be viewed negatively by other genetic counsellors. Most participants without private sector experience expressed concern that the challenges they believed genetic counsellors face in private practice may impact service quality, but wished to address such concerns by providing appropriate support. Together, our results reinforce that participants in private and public sectors are strong advocates for peer support, multidisciplinary team work, and professional development. These core values, and seeking understanding of different circumstances and support needs, will enable genetic counsellors in different sectors to move forward together. Our results suggest supports that may be acted upon by members of the profession, professional groups, and training programs, in Australia, New Zealand, and overseas.