A genetic counsellor has specialist training and knowledge in genetics, counselling, and communications. They are not doctors but often work as part of a team alongside geneticists (genetics doctors) and other clinical specialists, such as neurologists.
Genetic counsellors can provide information about testing options and can help translate medical jargon into everyday English for patients in a non-biased form. They do not tell a patient or their family what to do but instead provide them with current information for families to make informed choices and decisions.
A genetic counsellor can help patients and their families understand and adjust to a genetic diagnosis (or lack of one) and its impact. They provide emotional and practical support to people to help them manage the diagnosis adjustment phase or risk of a genetic condition. They may refer patients to other supports such as social workers or psychologists.