Abstract
Genetic counselors are in a unique position in that they explain medical genetics and testing while guiding a decision-making process that can deal with very serious, often life-changing issues. Scientific information is given while psychosocial support is provided to patients that are often experiencing very strong emotions. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore how genetic counselors’ personal grief and loss experiences affect the genetic counseling process, especially in a clinical setting. We interviewed eight board-certified genetic counselors with a personal grief or loss experience in the New England area with least five years experience. Face-to-face, in-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide covering three main topics: discussion of personal grief or loss experience, effect of experience on overall counseling, and case discussion. The audiotapes of the interviews were transcribed verbatim, and themes were identified and coded using ATLAS.ti software. Results showed major themes of 1) change, 2) separation of personal and professional lives, 3) identification of countertransference, and 4) consequences of countertransference. Subthemes under the theme of change included changes in beliefs and attitudes, in understanding patient experiences, and in patient encounters. Subthemes under the theme of separation of personal and professional lives included the necessity of this separation, and the burden of knowledge from being a genetic counselor. Identification of countertransference had subthemes that included case identification, triggers, and indicators. The consequences of countertransference in this study included the subthemes of self-disclosure and burnout. The results of our qualitative, exploratory study bring to light the necessity of understanding how personal experiences interact with the professional realm, especially in genetic counseling. The importance of professional support to examine and accept countertransference is highlighted. Future studies may include exploring the patient perspective on genetic counselor self-disclosure or an investigation of empathy and psychosocial counseling techniques in genetic counseling.