General Information

The purpose of this course is to equip participants with essential communication and counselling skills tailored to the complex, emotional, and decision-rich context of genetic counselling, where professionals must help individuals and families understand and adapt to medically and psychologically significant information. Communication in genetic counselling is a two-way process that requires not only clear explanation of genetic risk and testing options but also active listening to the fears, values, and concerns of counselees. There is a clear need for structured training because effective communication behaviours, such as responding empathically and eliciting patient perspectives, directly influence patient understanding, satisfaction, and informed decision-making. Role play conducted in small group (3-5 participants) and experiential learning are recognised as effective instructional strategies in improving communication competence in this field, enhancing participants’ confidence and future professional performance. Many communication skills training programs have demonstrated improvements in counselling behaviours, underlining the importance of practice-oriented approaches. Advanced communication skills are increasingly needed as genomic testing becomes more complex and mainstreamed into broader healthcare practice. The course also addresses psychosocial and cultural dimensions of counselling, helping practitioners to support adaptation to genetic diagnoses and navigate emotionally charged conversations. By focusing on both theory and applied practice, participants will leave better prepared to integrate patient-centred communication into routine clinical genetic counselling consultations, ultimately improving quality of care and patient outcomes.

Registration

The Registration fee for the entire course (€730,00) includes tuition, course material, all meals, coffee breaks, social dinner and transportation from Bologna Autostazione/airport to the course venue and back. On November 15^th the transportation service will be scheduled at 5.30/6.00 pm approx. On November 19^th the transportation service will leave from Bertinoro to Bologna airport/city centre at the end of the course at 2.00 pm (estimated arrival time to Bologna 3.15/3.30 pm). If your flight arrives/leaves on November 14^th/20^th we suggest to spend the night in Bologna.

Programme

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