“There's a Whole Different Way of Working with Adolescents”: Interviews with Australian Genetic Counselors About their Experiences with Adolescent Clients

• DOI: 10.1007/s10897-013-9601-7
• Publication Date: 2013-05-17T04:23:29Z
• Authors: Cheryl Tse; Margaret Sahhar; Jane Wallace; Rony E. Duncan
• Keywords: Thematic Analysis; Adolescent Health

Adolescence is a developmental period marked by unique physical, psychological and social changes. Guidelines about working with adolescents are available to health professionals in other fields, yet few resources tailored specifically genetic counselors. The current qualitative study explored the experiences of counselors who work adolescent clients determine whether challenges exist if further training support needed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted 11 from Australia. Interview transcripts analyzed using thematic analysis which 7 key themes emerged: 1) Adolescents: A distinct client group? 2) Characteristics adolescents; 3) Strategies for 4) Confidentiality; 5) Parental involvement presence sessions; 6) Benefits 7) effectiveness past education. findings hold important implications clinical practice may inform future programs guidelines internationally.