Advanced Genetic Counseling

Abstract

Advanced Genetic Counseling: Theory and Practice addresses educational objectives for second-year genetic counseling students. Building on mastery of genetics principles and baseline clinical skills, this comprehensive textbook begins with the history of the profession as it relates to current practice definitions and goals. Characteristics of clients and counselors that may affect the counseling relationship are presented to guide strategies for achieving positive client outcomes. Throughout the text, a psychotherapeutic counseling approach is advocated. Steps to establishing a therapeutic alliance are outlined and the elements of relational counseling emphasized. The psychological counseling theories presented will help counselors identify interventions to address client needs. Students are encouraged to pursue research to address gaps in evidence needed to guide practice. Health behavior and social psychology theories offer models to assess health perceptions and behaviors. The book concludes with a look toward the future of genetic counseling in the genomics era.