Genetic testing is becoming an increasingly important part of healthcare in Australia, but many people are still unsure what a genetic counsellor actually does, or when they should see one. At Rosalind Genetics, genetic counselling sits at the centre of every service we provide, ensuring that genetic information is accurate, ethical, and genuinely useful for individuals and families.
What Is a Genetic Counsellor?
A genetic counsellor is a university-trained healthcare professional with specialist expertise in genetics and counselling. In Australia, genetic counsellors typically hold a Master’s degree in Genetic Counselling and are accredited through the Human Genetics Society of Australasia (HGSA).
While genetic tests generate data, genetic counsellors help make sense of that information. Their role is to support people to understand genetic risks, testing options, and results in a way that is medically accurate, emotionally supportive, and aligned with personal values and circumstances.
What Does a Genetic Counsellor Actually Do?
Genetic counsellors work across many areas of healthcare, including cancer genetics, reproductive genetics, cardiology, neurology, paediatrics, and rare diseases. Their role commonly includes:
- Assessing personal and family medical history to identify inherited risks
- Explaining genetic conditions and inheritance in clear, accessible language
- Discussing genetic testing options, including benefits, limitations, and potential outcomes
- Preparing individuals for possible results, including unexpected or uncertain findings
- Interpreting genetic test results and explaining what they mean for the individual and their family
- Supporting informed decision-making without pressure or direction
- Coordinating care with laboratories, doctors, and other healthcare professionals
Genetic counsellors are also trained to support people through emotionally complex situations, such as learning about inherited cancer risk, reproductive decision-making, or results with implications for other family members.
When Should You See a Genetic Counsellor?
You may benefit from seeing a genetic counsellor if you:
- Have a strong family history of cancer, heart disease, or other inherited conditions
- Have been diagnosed with cancer, a genetic condition, or a rare disease
- Are planning a pregnancy and considering carrier screening
- Are pregnant and seeking prenatal genetic testing
- Have received a genetic test result you don’t fully understand
- Are considering predictive or preventative genetic testing
- Are concerned about genetic risks for children or other relatives
Importantly, you don’t need to be unwell to see a genetic counsellor. Many people seek counselling proactively to better understand risk and plan for the future.
Do You Need a Referral in Australia?
In Australia, genetic counselling often involves specialist medical input. At Rosalind Genetics, we usually require our clients to have a referral from their doctor, such as a GP or specialist. This helps ensure coordinated, high-quality care and appropriate medical oversight.
While referrals are required, our waiting times are significantly shorter than those typically experienced in the public health system, allowing timely access to expert genetic counselling and testing.
How Care Works at Rosalind Genetics
Every client at Rosalind Genetics is supported by a genetic counsellor, regardless of the complexity of their case.
- For more straightforward cases, a genetic counsellor may conduct the consultation, organise genetic testing, and provide results and follow-up care.
- For more complex cases, clients may also need to be reviewed by a medical specialist, such as a clinical geneticist or medical oncologist. In these situations, the genetic counsellor works closely with the medical doctor to ensure continuity, clarity, and support throughout the process.
All consultations at Rosalind Genetics are delivered via telehealth, allowing us to support individuals and families across Australia, including those in regional, rural, and remote areas. By offering high-quality clinical genetics services online, we aim to improve equity of access and reduce geographical barriers to specialist genetic care.
The Bottom Line
Genetic counsellors play a vital role in modern healthcare by translating complex genetic science into compassionate, practical guidance. Whether you are navigating a diagnosis, planning for the future, or seeking clarity about genetic risk, genetic counselling is often the most important first step.
At Rosalind Genetics, a genetic counsellor is involved in every case, providing expert, accessible, and patient-centred care wherever you live in Australia.
