The Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors (CAGC) was formed in 1990 with the goal of promoting high standards of practice, facilitating and supporting professional growth and increasing public awareness of the genetic counselling profession in Canada.
The current mission as reflected in the 2024-2029 Strategic Plan is to strengthen the genetic counselling profession in Canada by providing members with education, community, support, and leadership.
Code of Ethics
Code of Ethics for Canadian Genetic Counsellors (2006)
Genetic counsellors are healthcare providers with a Master’s degree in genetic counselling or equivalent training and proven competence. Genetic counsellors working or trained in Canada are encouraged to belong to the Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors, our recognised professional body, and to maintain CAGC Certification. Genetic counsellors are expected to act ethically in all professional relationships and to be aware of the guidelines herein and the principles on which they are based. Each genetic counsellor has responsibilities to patients, to colleagues, to society as a whole, and to her/himself.
Code of Conduct
View our Code of Professional Conduct here.
Indigenous Land Acknowledgement
The CAGC acknowledges that our head office is located on aboriginal land that has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples from the beginning. Halton, as we know it today, is rich in the history and modern traditions of many First Nations and the Métis. From the lands of the Anishinaabe to the Attawandaron, the Haudenosaunee, and the Métis, these lands surrounding the Great Lakes are steeped in Indigenous history. As we gather today on these treaty lands, we are in solidarity with our Indigenous brothers and sisters to honour and respect the four directions, lands, waters, plants, animals and ancestors that walked before us, and all of the wonderful elements of creation that exist. We acknowledge and thank the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation for being stewards of this traditional territory.
Membership
Membership is open to all genetic counsellors, genetic counselling students, and allied health care professionals working in the field of genetics. Clinical and laboratory geneticists may also become members. Student members are welcome!
For additional information, please visit our Membership section.