Genetics Counsellor I (UAH)

The Medical Genetics Program, located in Edmonton, Alberta, is looking for a dynamic Genetic Counsellor I to join our current team of 10 Genetic Counsellors. Located in the Stollery Children’s Hospital, the Medical Genetics Clinic is a comprehensive program encompassing many areas of practice including pediatrics, adult genetics, metabolics, cardiac, neurogenetics and cancer. Services are provided to patients located throughout Northern Alberta, Nunavut, Northwest Territories and northern BC and Saskatchewan, utilizing telemedicine. The successful candidate will work as part of the cancer team, with the potential opportunity to work in other areas of practice in the future. As a part of the overall counselling team, the genetic counsellor is expected to be involved in general group projects and work in other areas of genetics, as needed for program requirements. Opportunities also exist for clinical appointment to the department of Medicine and Dentistry through the University of Alberta. In this role the successful applicant will provide genetic counselling for patients and their families who have, or are at risk for, various hereditary cancer syndromes. The genetic counsellor will obtain medical & family histories, review & analyze medical records and, working with Medical Geneticists, initiate a counselling strategy, provide appropriate recommendations, coordinate genetic testing, provide follow-up, and appropriately document care provided. The candidate is expected to work within a Family-Centered model of care and foster strong team bonds and working relationships with members of the interdisciplinary team. Opportunities exist for teaching of medical students, residents, fellows and genetic counseling students.

As a Genetics Counsellor I, you will determine a patient or family's risk for a genetic condition, interpret test results, analyze inheritance patterns and risks of occurrence or recurrence, and review available options with the individual/family in a manner that promotes informed choice. You will assist patients, families and medical care providers to understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of how genetics contributes to disease. In addition, you will guide individuals/families in discussions about testing options, test result interpretation, prevention, medical management, newborn metabolic screening, and options for prenatal diagnosis. You will also provide supportive counselling to individuals/families with sensitivity to ethnic and cultural diversity and they address potential ethical issues. Furthermore, you will serve as a patient advocate and refer individuals and families to available support services, and as an educator and resource people for other healthcare professionals and the general public.

Master's degree in Genetic Counselling. Certification (or eligible for certification) by the Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors (CAGC) and/or the American Board of Genetic Counselling (ABGC).

As this role is supported by an experienced, Cancer Genetics Counsellor, new graduates will be considered. Counsellors with greater than one year of working experience, particularly in the area of cancer, are particularly encouraged to apply. A Master's degree in Genetic Counseling, certificate/eligible with the Canadian Association of Genetic Counselor or American Board of Genetic Counseling is required. Excellent communication, conflict resolution and interpersonal skills with demonstrated problem-solving, planning and organizational skills are essential. A commitment to the philosophy of collaborative practice and a Family-centered model of care is an expectation. Basic Cardiac Life Support - Health Care Provider (BCLS-HCP) is required. Should you wish to learn more about the position, please contact: Sajid Merchant, MS, CGC Lead Genetic Counsellor Sajid.Merchant@ahs.ca.

The ability to be flexible and adaptable are preferred assets.