Trauma-informed practice for genetic counselors: Insights from a workshop evaluation

Trauma-informed practice (TIP) is an emerging model of care that acknowledges the widespread impact of trauma and emphasizes both physical and psychological safety for consumer and provider. It is being increasingly integrated into models of healthcare delivery, organizational policies, and practices, and has been shown to improve clinical interactions, increase treatment adherence, and improve healthcare outcomes. However, to date, TIP has not yet been systematically integrated into genetic counseling training and practice. In this study, using the RISE2 Genomics reporting standard, we present the outcomes of developing and evaluating a TIP workshop designed and delivered for genetic counselors in New South Wales, Australia. This workshop was the first of its kind and addressed the unique clinical and psychosocial challenges that genetic counselors face, including the risk of vicarious trauma and the high rates of burnout in the profession. The workshop aimed to enhance genetic counselors' understanding of trauma and its effects, provide practical strategies for communication and engagement with trauma-affected individuals, and offer guidance on incorporating TIP into clinical practice. Genetic counselors who participated in the TIP training expressed strong appreciation for the workshop and reported increased awareness of the ubiquity of trauma and the presentation of traumatic responses, and increased self-perceived knowledge and confidence in providing trauma-informed care. Additionally, participants were interested in ongoing TIP professional development and the integration of TIP into models of genetic counseling and professional practice. As the field of genetic counseling continues to evolve, we suggest that integrating TIP into training, professional development, and practice will not only improve client outcomes but also reduce rates of vicarious trauma and burnout among genetic counselors. This study is the first to consider the educational needs and the incorporation of TIP into genetic counseling practice, and in doing so, it paves the way for future research and policy development that integrates TIP into models of genetic counseling.