Program Information
Last updated
Last updated
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The MSGC Program aligns its mission with that of the Institution. The Mission Statement of the ISMMS highlights patient care, education, research, dissemination of knowledge, and concern for community (available at ).
The Genetic Counseling Program is a 21-month, full-time course of study designed to train future genetic counselors through intensive coursework and a variety of clinical placements.
The Genetic Counseling Program is a 21-month, full-time course of study designed to train future genetic counselors through intensive coursework and a variety of clinical placements. The integration of the academic and clinical disciplines within the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, ISMMS, and the Mount Sinai Health System provides our students unparalleled opportunities for didactic and clinical experiences to develop the medical, scientific, and psychosocial skills necessary to practice in this challenging and exciting field. Our graduates are uniquely qualified and highly recruited professionals in one of the fastest growing areas in healthcare. Students must complete the core curriculum. Students are also required to rotate through a variety of clinical settings from prenatal to pediatric to adult genetics. These rotations provide opportunities for extensive supervised experience in history taking, interviewing, patient education, psychosocial assessment, and genetic risk assessment. For the thesis project, students must complete an in-depth study of a selected genetic counseling issue or topic. Students are strongly encouraged to study topics appropriate for national presentation and/or publication. Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Board of Genetic Counseling Certification Examination. The Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC).
This seven practice-based competencies that are necessary for practice as an entry-level genetic counselor. Embedded within the seven competencies are 25 sub-competencies that support the attainment of the practice-based competencies. These competencies, along with the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counselors’ Standards of Accreditation, provide guidance for the training of genetic counselors and for evaluating trainees’ knowledge and skills. The didactic and experiential components of a genetic counseling training curriculum must support the development of proficiency in the following competencies: 1) Genetics and Genomics Expertise, 2) Risk Assessment, 3) Counseling, 4) Communication, 5) Research, 6) Healthcare Systems, and 7) Professional Identity. These competencies and skills, as defined by the sub-competencies, describe the minimal skill set of a genetic counselor which should be applicable across practice settings.
Genetics and Genomics Expertise 1. Apply knowledge of genetics and genomics principles, genetic conditions, and testing technologies to the practice of genetic counseling. 1.a. Demonstrate knowledge of genetics and genomics principles and concepts. 1.b. Apply knowledge of genetic conditions to the delivery of genetics services. 1.c. Demonstrate knowledge of genetic testing methodologies and variant interpretation.
Risk Assessment 2. Evaluate personalized genetic risk. 2.a. Analyze family history to estimate genetic risk. 2.b. Calculate risk using probability methods and risk models. 2.c. Integrate clinical and laboratory data into risk assessment. 2.d. Order genetic tests guided by client-centered risk assessment.
Counseling 3. Promote integration of psychosocial needs and client-centered decision-making into genetic counseling interactions. 3.a. Use applicable counseling skills and theories. 3.b. Establish a working alliance with client. 3.c. Promote psychosocial adaptation. 3.d. Facilitate client’s decision-making process
Communication 4. Communicate genetics and genomics information to clients, colleagues, and other community partners. 4.a. Tailor communication to specific individuals and audiences. 4.b. Use a variety of approaches to communicate genetics and genomic information. 4.c. Convey probabilities based on client’s risk perception and numeracy.
Research 5. Synthesize the evidence base relevant to genetic counseling. 5.a. Critically interpret data and literature. 5.b. Apply data and literature considering its strengths, weaknesses, and limitations. 5.c. Demonstrate knowledge of how genetic counselors engage and contribute to the research process.
Healthcare Systems 6. Demonstrate how genetic counselors fit within the larger healthcare system. 6.a. Demonstrate how disparities, inequities, and systemic bias affect access to healthcare for diverse populations. 6.b. Describe the financial considerations in the delivery of genetic services. 6.c. Advocate for continuity of care. 6.d. Collaborate with members of the Care Team, clients, and other Community Partners.
Professional Identity 7. Embody the values of the genetic counseling profession. 7.a. Adhere to the genetic counselor scope of practice. 7.b. Follow applicable professional ethical codes. 7.c. Exhibit behaviors that promote an inclusive, just, equitable, and safe environment for all individuals and communities. 7.d. Engage in self-reflective practice to promote ongoing growth and development.
Randi Zinberg, MS, CGC
212-241-9197
Lisa Karger, MS, CGC
212-241-2530
Hetanshi Naik, PhD, MS, CGC
212-241-7699