Below you will find various support organizations, some of which are specifically for genetic counselors and/or other healthcare professionals. You will also notice that many of these are oriented towards creating community and support networks. Community plays a vital role in supporting mental health and building resiliency; it has always been important and will always be important.
The list below is by no means comprehensive. If you notice a group or organization that you think should be included, please reach out via email at OAGCcommittees@ohiogenetics.org and we will explore featuring them in the future.
NSGC Perspectives: It’s Okay To Say ‘I Can’t Do This’ | Chloe Barnett, MS, LGC (she/her)
https://perspectives.nsgc.org/Article/its-okay-to-say-i-cant-do-this
National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI)
“Our mission is to provide support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness. Founded in 1983, we are a grassroots organization dedicated to improving the lives of those impacted by mental health conditions and promoting mental wellness across our state.” – NAMI Ohio https://namiohio.org/
- For information specific to healthcare professionals, visit: https://www.nami.org/your-journey/frontline-professionals/health-care-professionals/
The Black Genetic Counseling Student Association (BGCSA)
“We believe in the power of community and the importance of creating a space where Black genetic counseling students can connect, empower each other, and thrive together. Our mission is to provide a supportive environment where you can share your experiences, learn from each other, and access valuable resources to help you succeed in your academic and professional journey. By joining our support group, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to our growing community and shape the activities and events that will benefit you and your peers. Your voice matters, and your presence is valued.”
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdEDiwVlI_nsgVpSK8YJAJ9EuuhhyQAmxbdP_Dm78tR0PuujA/viewform
Equity for Genetic Counseling (E4GC)
Equity4GC is an affinity group for current GC students and recent graduates who identify as racial/ethnic minorities. We offer peer support, resources for rotations/boards/job applications and more! E4GC is an affinity group that aims to build a sense of community and belonging among current students and recent graduates across various genetic counseling programs, support diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice initiatives in the GC profession, and provide a safe space to affirm, support, and celebrate one another.
Contact Info: equitygc@gmail.com
Sign up:
The Ōnda Collective
Sitting at the heart of science and creativity, The Ōnda Collective is an inspired, evidence-based educational platform for personal growth and well-being. Offering NSGC-approved virtual webinars and in-person genetic counseling retreats for CEUs, The Ōnda Collective creates an invigorating and safe space for you to workshop a range of wellness tools designed to help you reconnect to your purpose, increase your well-being, and create meaningful balance in your personal and professional life. Unlike traditional professional development, The Ōnda Collective’s offerings engage the head, heart, and hands as you begin to unearth what may be holding you back and open the aperture of what is possible in your life and work. These are not just lectures… they are fun and engaging workshops!
https://www.theondacollective.org
NSGConnect
The NSGConnect Mentor Program promotes a professional and social platform connecting members across all career stages, positions and specialties in networking, career development and exploring new roles to enrich the profession.
https://www.nsgc.org/Members/NSGConnect
Consider engaging in your community via volunteer work:
https://www.volunteermatch.org/
https://serve.ohio.gov/home/news-and-events/all-news/health-benefits
How Volunteering Improves Mental Health | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness
Finding a personal therapist
For individualized care, check with your insurance provider and/or visit Psychology Today’s ‘Find a Therapist’ tool: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us
*For immediate support in a mental health crisis, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Please note that inclusion in this list does not indicate official endorsement by OAGC. The information and perspectives reflect the personal opinions of the author(s) and/or organizations and does not reflect the views or opinions of the Ohio Association of Genetic Counselors, OAGC Board Members, or OAGC Committee Members.