Counseling in a different language: An analysis of experiences and resources in multilingual genetic counseling.

This study set out to investigate the experiences of bilingual/multilingual genetic counselors in the United States and Canada who have counseled in a non-English language and characterize their training experiences to identify potential areas for improvement. A total of 32 bilingual and/or multilingual genetic counselors completed online surveys. Approximately 83% of participants typically counsel patients in languages for which they believe their proficiency is at least good without the participation of an interpreter. Challenges to providing language-concordant care include insufficient patient-facing translation tools/resources, with roughly half reporting they have created their own resources out of necessity. For training programs, there was a strong desire for more supervision in bilingual/multilingual genetic counseling students' non-English language during training to help foster genetics-related language skills development.

The experiences and support needs of applicants who go unmatched to genetic counseling graduate programs: An exploratory qualitative study.

As interest in the profession of genetic counseling continues to grow, the number of applications received by accredited genetic counseling graduate programs far outweighs the number of available training positions. In the 2023 application cycle, 46% of applicants who participated in the genetic counseling match went unmatched. There is limited research surrounding the experiences of unmatched candidates. The aims of this qualitative study were to highlight the experience of not matching and reapplying and to identify support resources for the genetic counseling admissions process. We conducted 15 semi-structured interviews with individuals who had previously applied to genetic counseling graduate programs, not matched, and were in the process of reapplying. Through reflexive thematic analysis, five major themes were conceptualized: (1) Emotional navigation through the stages of the match process; (2) external perceptions surrounding going unmatched and disclosure of results; (3) experiencing stagnancy throughout applying and reapplying; (4) advances in knowledge and personal growth; (5) areas for increased supports and resources. This study has shed light on emotional and practical challenges faced by individuals who did not match with genetic counseling graduate programs and chose to reapply. The participants' experiences highlighted the need for enhanced support, especially in terms of emotional assistance and program feedback. They also underscored the importance of standardization and transparency in the application process. This research offers valuable insights for genetic counseling programs and organizations seeking to enhance the reapplicant experience and address the evolving needs of prospective candidates in the genetic counseling profession.

Complexities of Clinical Genetics Consultation: An Interprofessional Clinical Skills Workshop.

Introduction: Advances in genomic medicine contribute to increased demand for clinical genetics services and require physicians to understand the interprofessional practice of this field. Medical students receive a foundation in genetics during preclinical studies, but variability in clinical experience may limit knowledge of and recruitment into this clinical specialty. In this resource, we describe an approach for simulating exposure to the practice of clinical genetics during the core pediatrics clerkship. Methods: Prior to class, students researched and considered a mock genetics case. In class, each of four small groups discussed two cases demonstrating varied presentations, with facilitation by genetic counseling students. Each case highlighted the variability in presentation, testing, management strategies, and psychosocial issues of a genetics case. Groups reported out to the class, and individuals completed an anonymous evaluation survey. Results: Surveys were distributed to nine of 10 pilot sessions (210 of 235 students) with a response rate of 48%. Students frequently reported no previous exposure to seeing patients with genetics professionals, indicated a preference for learning in case discussion format over traditional lectures, and felt the format helped them apply clinical skills and reasoning. Medical students appreciated the opportunity to interact with genetic counseling students in an interdisciplinary setting and desired further educational opportunities regarding delivering complex information to patients and their families. Discussion: This session expanded exposure to clinical genetics content and professionals, serving as an important foundation for further development of genetic knowledge during clinical training.

"I am a Genetic Counselor": A qualitative exploration of field leaders' perceptions of the title "genetic counselor".

The genetic counseling profession is 50 years old, and is growing and diversifying. Despite this evolving context, no studies have formally explored the continuing relevance or appropriateness of the title "genetic counselor." We used a qualitative research methodology (interpretive description) to explore this concept among thought leaders within the genetic counseling profession. We conducted 12 semi-structured telephone interviews, which ranged in length from 18 to 50 min, and transcribed them verbatim. Analysis and data collection unfolded in parallel. The following themes regarding participants' perceptions of the title "genetic counselor" emerged from the data: (1) others misunderstand "genetic counselor"; (2) the term "counselor" in our title produces complex and conflicting emotions; (3) risks of changing our title outweigh the benefit; and (4) we need to own the narrative surrounding our title. Despite recognition that the title "genetic counselor" may not capture the full range of diverse roles members of the profession play, our data reveal overall support for the continued relevance and appropriateness of the title, for the value of the strength that comes from unity within the profession, and for efforts to highlight that which unites us across roles, disciplines, and specialties.