Laura Benedict
As we approach National Genetics Counselor Awareness Day on November 14, we’d like to shine a spotlight on the vital contributions of our genetics counselors like Laura Benedict. These dedicated professionals assist individuals and families navigating the complexities of genetic disorders, offering not just information and education, but also compassion and support.
Laura’s journey into this specialized field was inspired by a family friend who was a genetics counselor at Akron Children’s. “She encouraged me to consider the field when she learned of my love for science,” Laura recalled. “I volunteered with her in high school and later did a senior project with her in undergrad, helping to put together patient information.”
While she has worked in different settings as a genetics counselor, Laura said working in a pediatric institution has always held a special place in her heart because of the focus on patient centered care.
In 2021, Laura began working in Akron Children’s Maternal-Fetal Medicine and D. Gary Benfield, MD, Fetal Treatment Center. Her role includes reviewing imaging findings with patients and discussing potential genetic causes, testing options and coordinating follow-up care. Laura said one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of her job is delivering difficult news to families. “I’m often in the room when we provide this information, or I may be the one delivering it,” she said. “I try to help families navigate their emotions and connect them with support resources like behavioral health or palliative care.”
Laura’s role includes reviewing imaging findings with patients and discussing potential genetic causes, testing options and coordinating follow-up care. Laura said one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of her job is delivering difficult news to families. She’s pictured here with obstetrician gynecologist Dr. Susan Hendricks.
Collaboration and teamwork are at the heart of her work, especially as it relates to patient experience. “From the moment we receive a referral, I work closely with nurses and doctors to ensure comprehensive care,” she shared. “Communication is key, both with families and within the health care team.”
Laura is particularly excited about advances in genetic testing – especially the ability to perform detailed testing quickly and affordably.
“Prenatal diagnosis can be tricky, because we don’t see the whole picture clinically,” she said. “Effective, timely and accurate testing is an important tool to help us counsel our families regarding what they can expect and what the risk may be for this to occur again in the future.”
While counseling about genetic testing options is an important part of her role, it’s just one of the ways she supports her patients and families.
“The biggest benefit to seeing a genetics counselor is simply gaining an understanding of why or how a genetic disease may be present in yourself, your family or your child,” she said. “We help people process what it means to have a genetic disease in your family. We also help them to access the care they or their loved one may need.”
Collaboration and teamwork are at the heart of Laura’s job, especially as it relates to patient experience. She works closely with the nurses and doctors to ensure comprehensive care and effective communication. Here she’s pictured with Clinical Coordinator Carrie Gardiner and Lead Ultrasound Technologist Jennifer Burnett.
Laura admits that when she first started at Children’s she wasn’t entirely sure what her role would entail.
“Coming in, I thought that it would be similar to other prenatal counseling roles I’ve held in the past,” she said. “However, this role has allowed me to take the next step in terms of leadership and has helped my creativity to blossom.”
As a baby, Laura spent time in the Akron Children’s NICU, which she said makes Children’s more than just a workplace. What sets it apart, according to Laura, is its sense of community and connection. “I’ve seen my colleagues go above and beyond to connect with families. That commitment to patient-centered care is truly inspiring.
“I grew up in this community. I have always envisioned returning to the hospital that ignited my passion for genetic counseling and medicine,” she added.
As we celebrate National Genetics Counselor Awareness Day, we recognize Laura and all of our genetics counselors for their dedication to supporting families through the complexities of genetic health.
For more information on working at Akron Children’s, visit careers.akronchildrens.org.
