Few in numbers across Quebec, genetic counsellors often leave room for many questions. For ordinary people, it is a completely unknown profession. However, at Genolife, these are important resources for our customers on a daily basis. Our genetic counselors allow us to offer a human and personalized service in the vast world of prevention genetics and genetic testing. They debunk myths with you and accompany you in taking control of your genetic health. Thus, we thought to introduce you to Andrea Secord, genetic counselor in our team.
Q: How many years have you been working as a genetic counsellor?
A: I have been practicing for more than 15 years. I received my Master’s degree in Genetic Counseling from McGill University in 2005. I worked at the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) until 2013 in a clinical role. Ths allowed me to take care of patients, their families, but also to train new genetic counselors. From 2013 to 2019, I changed roles in order to move to the genetics laboratory. In 2019, I joined Genolife as our clinic coordinator and am the senior clinical genetic counselor.
Q: Concretely, what is a genetic counsellor?
A: There are many definitions, but for me, genetic counseling is about helping people understand the complexities of genetics, what it means for them and their families, and helping them manage that information. Genetics has become a popular topic that comes up in everyday conversations. It can be difficult to go through the information we have to understand what this means personally. I think it’s my role as a genetic counselor to help people understand if their family history of a certain disease increases their own risk of developing that disease or their risk of having a child with the disease. It’s to be seen if a genetic test exists that could clarify their own health status or change their medical follow-up, to understand what the result of genetic testing means for them and their family members, to help other health professionals understand genetics and to integrate this potentially powerful information into their patients’ care.
Q: Why did you choose this field?
A: I decided to become a genetic counselor because I was intrigued by the combination of genetics and counselling psychology. I continue to do this work because I love helping people better understand their genetics and how it impacts their health.
Fully bilingual, Andrea can serve you in English and French according to your preferences. If you want to chat with her to better understand your genetic health, know that the first call to Genolife is free. This short call usually allows him to better target your needs.