Well-being and self-care strategies for cardiovascular genetic counselors: a qualitative study

Purpose To explore the impact of cardiovascular genetic counseling practice on genetic counselor well-being and describe self-care practices. Methods Participants were recruited through the Australasian Society of Genetic Counselors. Semi-structured interviews explored challenges in cardiovascular genetic counseling practice, supervision and self-care. Interview transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Self-reported demographics, psychological well-being and burnout measures were used. Results Eighteen genetic counselors participated. Median interview length was 54 minutes (range 40-74). All participants were female and 83% of European ethnicity. Few reported mild or moderate depression symptoms (17%), mild or moderate anxiety symptoms (22%) and none (0%) had scores indicating stress. Three (17%) had scores indicating burnout. Thematic analysis identified three themes: (1) cardiovascular genetic counseling is different, not harder or easier; (2) workplace pressures affect well-being; (3) a self-care “tool kit” is necessary and supervision is a key component. Conclusion Genetic counseling practice and workload can affect well-being. A genetic counselor self-care ‘tool kit’ that includes supervision helps maintain well-being.