Genetic Counselor
Facilitating important conversations at the intersection of Catholic bioethics and genetic technologies
While we share remarkable similarity of our DNA with each other (>99%), each human being is intricately and uniquely designed. Our genetic code, the instruction manual for daily life’s most complex and intricate processes, reflects the beautiful image of the Creator.
As genetic testing technologies begin to find their way into more areas of healthcare than ever before, the questions about how these technologies can be used responsibly and ethically grow more urgent.
How do we honor the sanctity of life while utilizing the benefits of these technologies? How do we discern the good they can offer while remaining faithful to fundamental truths?
Drawing on a Judeo-Christian background, my mission is to illuminate these questions with clarity and compassion. As a dedicated patient advocate, I am committed to the truth that every human person possesses infinite dignity and worth.
Through speaking, writing, and consultation, I provide ethically grounded, life-affirming education on genetic screening and testing, with a special focus on prenatal genetic diagnosis. I offer practical guidance to equip families, advocates, clergy, and healthcare providers to navigate complex medical decisions with compassion and confidence.
Empowering communities to navigate genetics with clarity and compassion
Caroline is a board-certified and licensed genetic counselor dedicated to providing faith-informed and family-centered genetics education.
Through diverse experiences in clinical care, family advocacy, project management, genetic variant science, and model organism research, Caroline has developed a holistic and comprehensive approach to life-affirming guidance in genetics.
With a clinical focus on prenatal genetic testing and diagnosis, she prioritizes genuine informed consent, thoughtful decision-making, and respect for the inherent value of every life. Caroline is committed to helping patients, families, healthcare providers, and advocates navigate the complex information and ethical considerations surrounding genetic screening and testing.
Caroline earned her undergraduate degree in Biology from Hillsdale College before completing her Masters in Genetic Counseling at the University of Minnesota. She is board-certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC).
Caroline is a member of the American Association of Pro-Life OBGYNs (AAPLOG) and a member of the Medical Advisory board at Be Not Afraid, an organization that connects parents to trauma-informed case management services following a prenatal genetic diagnosis.
Navigating genetics, health, and human dignity
Catholic ministries support parents facing a prenatal diagnosis of a disability by offering trauma-informed care, life-affirming resources, and spiritual accompaniment.
View External LinkCaroline is a speaker at the University of Mary Medical Professionals Conference, discussing ethical approaches to genetic counseling.
View External LinkA comprehensive webinar on non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and the role of genetic counseling in prenatal care.
View External LinkCaroline discusses life-affirming genetic counseling approaches in this Curbsite Consult Series episode.
View External LinkReady to bring ethically grounded, life-affirming guidance to your work? Let’s connect.