12. Ethical and Legal Issues

In this final chapter-focused episode of Counseling Code, we turn to the ethical and legal dimensions of genetic counseling—areas that are as complex as they are critical.

We explore foundational ethical principles, the NSGC Code of Ethics, and the real-world dilemmas that counselors face in clinical practice. From privacy concerns to testing decisions, from informed consent to legal responsibilities, this episode highlights the importance of sound judgment and professional integrity in an evolving field.

Whether you’re new to genetics or already in practice, this episode offers a thoughtful guide to the questions that don’t always have clear answers—but require careful consideration every time.