Fundamental Genetic Counseling Skills

Limited to Genetic Counseling students. Introduction to profession of genetic counseling. Addresses fundamental genetic counseling skills and structure of genetic counseling session using didactic and active learning techniques, including role-plays, supplemented by activities in clinical settings. Topics include history of profession, theories of psychosocial counseling and its principles including reciprocal-engagement model of genetic counseling, active listening, verbal and non-verbal communication, empathy, how to ask questions, self-disclosure and self-involving skills, and structure of genetic counseling session. Practical exercises and supplementary activities address constructing genetic counseling session, contracting, obtaining family history, drawing and interpreting pedigrees, interviewing techniques, assessing level of patient and family understanding, case preparation, risk communication, development of educational materials, and referrals. General Genetics Case Conference attendance and clinic observations are required component.

Letter grading.