What's a Genetic Counselor?

A genetic counselor is a health professional who finds information of families whom might have possible birth defects or genetic disorders to people who may be at risk of aquiring the disease/disorder. In order to become one, you must hold a Master's degree from an accredited U.S. graduate program. To be certified, you must successfully pass clinical training and have certification. Lastly, you must pass the American Board of Genetic's Counselor examination. Average salary of a genetic counselor is about 61,000 dollars (as of 2006).