The evolution of clinical supervision in genetic counseling: Theory, research, and practice

Abstract

Rooted in medicine and psychology, genetic counseling is a unique practice with a defined set of skills. Training is guided by practice-based competencies that define the requisite skills of an entry-level practitioner. Practicing genetic counselors with expertise in a variety of medical settings provide direct supervision that guides student development. In this article, we provide background on the history of genetic counseling, the model of practice, accreditation and certification standards, and an overview of clinical supervision as well as a review of supervision literature specific to the field.

Keywords::

• Clinical supervision of genetic counselors
• supervisor value conflicts
• supervisor interventions
• competencies
• Reciprocal-Engagement Model of Supervision

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Nancy Callanan

Nancy Callanan, MS, CGC, is Clinical Professor and Director Emerita of MS Genetic Counseling Program, School of Health and Human Sciences, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Patricia McCarthy Veach

Patricia McCarthy Veach, PhD, LP, is Professor Emerita, Assistant Research Director, Graduate Program of Study in Genetic Counseling, University of Minnesota.

Bonnie S. LeRoy

Bonnie S. LeRoy, MS, CGC, is Editor, Journal of Genetic Counseling, and Professor and Director of the Graduate Program of Study in Genetic Counseling, Department of Genetics Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota.