Socio-ecological models as a framework for 21st-century genetic counseling

Socio-ecological models and the related concepts of micro-, meso-, and macro-level practice are commonly used in the fields of social work and public health yet have not been thoroughly conceptualized for application to genetic counseling practice, research, and training. The field of genetic counseling is currently undergoing significant expansion with more genetic counseling training programs, greater variation in genetic counselor job roles, and genetic counselors practicing in more globally dispersed regions. It is therefore a critical time to conceptualize and tailor relevant theoretical frameworks to unify and guide the evolving field of genetic counseling. In this paper, we posit that socio-ecological models can provide a common language and organizational framework for the profession of genetic counseling in the 21st century. We provide an overview of socio-ecological models and describe applications of these models to genetic counselor professional identity, clinical practice, training, and research. By offering practical examples across professional identity, practice, training, and research contexts, we illustrate the relevance and value of socio-ecological models for addressing genetic counseling issues at multiple levels. In a period when genetic counseling is expanding and transforming, adoption and adaptation of socio-ecological models can enable the field to be cohesive and intentional in shaping the future of genetic counseling.