AI Resilience Report forGenetic Counselors

Right now, AI is mostly augmenting genetic counselors rather than replacing them. A recent overview in the Journal of Genetic Counseling explains that large language models like ChatGPT show promise for supporting specific tasks ^[1] such as letter writing, triage, intake and follow-up, decision aids, and patient-facing chatbots — but the authors argue these tools "cannot adequately replace the personalized application of counseling theory, skills, knowledge, and decision-making provided by a human genetic counselor." The National Society of Genetic Counselors' bimonthly AI/ML newsletter ^[2] tracks how counselors are folding generative tools into pedigree drawing, chart prep, and patient education. A 2025 Cell Press review similarly framed generative AI as a "partner" for counselors ^[3] that can speed up information delivery while clinicians focus on the emotional side of care.

Patients agree: in a survey presented at NSGC's 2025 annual meeting, 80–90% of patients said AI chatbots and online tools cannot replace a genetic counselor ^[4], though they're useful for basic questions.

Adoption is moving steadily but cautiously. Demand is a huge push — the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of genetic counselors to grow 9% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average ^[5], and there simply aren't enough counselors to meet demand, so chatbots help fill gaps. But ethics, privacy, and regulation slow things down: the same Journal of Genetic Counseling review warns that LLM use raises "significant ethical, regulatory, and privacy concerns that are yet to be addressed" ^[1].

Brookings researchers similarly argue for protecting and increasing the role of people in care workplaces ^[6] as AI spreads. The good news for anyone considering this career: the human skills — empathy, navigating fear, supporting families through tough news — are exactly what AI struggles with, and they're projected to stay in high demand.