Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Moving from a Psychology degree to a career as a Genetic Counselor
You can move from your Psychology degree to a career as a Genetic counselor. This may be a career that you have heard little about, but it is fascinating career choice. Also, it may be really appealing to someone who is interersted in physiology. A Genetic Counselor assesses the risk (at the individual or family level) for genetic disorders and birth defects. In addition a genetics counselor can offer information and support to those concerned with the risk of inherited conditions.
If you are thinking about becoming a Genetic Counselor, keep in mind that there are certain undergraduate experiences you should seek out. These include getting lab experience, seeking out an internship which involves working with others, and volunteering or interning in a medical or healthcare field. Also, in addition to your Psychology courses your application will be much stronger with courses in Biology, Genetics, and Biochemistry. As for earning your Master's degree, it will likely take you 2 years. You will probably have to pay tuition and there will only be limited opportunities for financial support (e.g., working as a Research Assistant). In addition, be awarte that once you earn a Master's in Genetic Counseling, you will need to be certified. This certification iis offered by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) through an annual examination.
Click here to link to the National Society of Genetic Counselors website
Salary Information
The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median yearly salary for a genetics counselor at $72,090.
Learn more about Genetic Counselors by clicking here.
Click here to read more about what a Master's Degree in Psychology offers.
Click here to read about important steps for Mental Health Careers with a Graduate Degree.
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Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Doctoral Degree in Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Psychiatrist