Empowering People: Genetic Counselling in Focus

October 1, 2019 to April 25, 2021

What is a genetic counsellor, what do they do, and who gets to see one? 

Genetic counsellors are healthcare professionals trained to work with people who have, or may be at risk from, a genetic condition. They have a unique skillset that combines their knowledge of genetics and different health conditions, communication skills that break down jargon and make sense of complex situations, and counselling skills that support people with the emotional impacts of their experience. Genetic counsellors work with people to enable them to make choices that are right for them. There is not one set path through genetic testing, diagnosis and experience but individuals, families and genetic counsellors can work together to find the most empowering path. As genomics becomes more prevalent in our healthcare system, and genetic testing more commonplace, researchers at the Wellcome Genome Campus are studying the evidence of how genetic counselling supports people to make informed decisions about their health choices. In exploring this exhibition you will encounter those working at the forefront of both clinical and research genetic counselling. Meet these individuals, discover the stories of patients that they have worked with, and walk for a moment in someone else’s shoes.

Exhibits

Anna Middleton Who sees a genetic counsellor, and how are they referred? Amy Goldman Sara Levene Jonathan Roberts Family tree How is a family tree drawn? Standardised pedigree symbols and nomenclature Sketching a family tree  Details unknown Hellen Jolley What are my choices? Should I tell my family? Georgina Hall Christine Patch Phlebotomy kit and spit sample tubes Integrating with the healthcare pathway Gemma Chandratillake Alastair Smith’s case Hamid Ahmed and Yasmin Marshall’s case David Kettering’s case

Stories

 

Reflections by Anna Middleton

Professor Anna Middleton's reflections how genomic technology is sweeping across society and the importance of the role of genetic counsellors.
 

Reflections by Chrystal Ding

Photographer Chrystal Ding's reflections on counselling as a human experience.
 

Translating Complex Messages to Diverse Populations

For patients receiving genetic counselling there is often a mixture of emotions and anxieties involved. The binary and gender-specific approaches commonly used during genetic counselling practice, can fail to recognise those who do not fit within a binary system, often exacerbating existing anxieties. So how can transcultural genetic counselling services help?
 

So Much More Than Just a Test

The power of film: Voices of genetic counsellors tour films festivals
 

Landmark Moments and Future Horizons

Sara Levene, Vice Chair of The Association of Genetic Nurses and Counsellors, reflects on the role of the AGNC, leading in a time of change, and the future of the profession with increasing demand for Genetic Counsellors

Images: Chrystal Ding

Film: Society and Ethics Research, Wellcome Connecting Science