Genetic Counselling Training and Accreditation

The education, training, and certification of genetic counsellors is administered by the HGSA Board of Censors for Genetic Counselling, and is governed by the HGSA Code of Ethics and Scope of Practice for Genetic Counsellors. More details and information are available through the Board of Censors web page and Certification Page on the ASGC Site.

Genetic counsellors are allied health professionals who have completed specialised training through a Master of Genetic Counselling program. People who have successfully completed this tertiary degree can seek employment as genetic counsellors and apply for MHGSA and eligibility to certify with the HGSA.

Once practising, Board Eligible genetic counsellors complete the training required for HGSA Board Certification, which assesses the knowledge, skills and competency of the individual in a clinical role over at least two years. Genetic counsellors who have successfully completed certification are granted the title ‘Fellow of the HGSA’ (FHGSA).

Once certified, genetic counsellors are expected to participate in continued professional development (CPD) and ongoing practice to maintain their knowledge and skills, and stay up to date with the changing needs of their clients and developments in the field of genetics. Genetic counsellors who meet these requirements through the HGSA are listed in an online Register.

Supervisor Training

All Genetic Counselling Supervisors are expected to have undertaken formal training in supervision. A minimum of 10 hours of supervision training is required in order to offer supervision as an FHGSA Registered Genetic Counsellor. This can consist of a single workshop or multiple shorter training activities. For more information please refer to the Supervision for Genetic Counsellors policy. 

Training opportunities and ongoing CPD activities for supervisors will be offered through the HGSA. Supervisors are strongly encouraged to access other opportunities for training in supervision, for example through their workplace or other local organisations. The list below includes a variety of courses Genetic Counselling Supervisors could consider. The HGSA is not affiliated with any of these courses and receives no financial benefit from suggesting them. The details below were correct at time of publication but please check the individual websites for up-to-date details.

Supervisor Training Funding for FHGSA Genetic Counsellors

The HGSA Executive has approved a subsidy for FHGSA Genetic Counsellors who choose to complete an external Supervisor training course. Please read the policy below for more details. Any questions can be sent to [email protected]

Supervisor Training Funding Policy

Application Form