Monisha Sebastin, MS, CGC, is a New York-based genetic counselor with an expertise in research, advocacy, mentorship and clinical care — all which led to her earning the National Society of Genetic Counselors’ (NSGC) Audrey Heimler Special Projects Award in 2024. Read on to learn about her journey to this award, her involvement in NSGC’s international special interest group, and her advice for new genetics professionals.
ABGC: You recently received the NSGC Audrey Heimler Special Projects Award from NSGC for you and your colleagues’ work on the project “Evaluating International Genomics Providers’ Needs and Perspectives on a Global Genomics Services Directory.” Can you share the overarching goals and takeaways from this project?
Monisha Sebastin, MS, CGC (MS): Genomics care is a global phenomenon, and there is a growing need for global connections to ensure continuity of patient care. This is especially applicable to cascade testing of family members living in different parts of the world or when patients relocate. The overarching goals of the project are to bridge the gaps in identifying genomics care providers. By creating a centralized global genomics services directory, I aim to improve patient care and timely access to necessary services and resources. The key takeaway from this project is to reduce the time and effort health care providers spend to locate appropriate genetics/genomics services for their patients and their family members worldwide. In the future, I hope to expand the directory’s utility to also include researchers and additional features that facilitate professional growth.
ABGC: What caused you to become involved in this project, and why is this topic something you are passionate about?
MS: As an ABGC certified genetic counselor (GC) of international origin practicing in the United States (U.S.), I advocate for fellow students, graduates and practicing genetic counselors of international origin while supporting the broader GC community. My advocacy efforts and related role have paved the way for my involvement in the international GC community and building connections with GCs practicing across the globe. Recognizing my presence in the international GC community, I often receive requests — either personally or through the international special interest group at NSGC — from genetics providers in the U.S. requesting contacts abroad and vice versa. Having a personal connection has made a world of difference in facilitating these requests. On the other hand, navigating these searches without such connections gave me a firsthand experience of potential delays and hurdles in accessing necessary resources. These experiences helped me recognize the barriers providers face in navigating cross-border genetics care, especially in regions with fewer established genetics care centers or their limited online presence. I wanted to address this gap by creating centralized resources to streamline these connections.
This project aligns with my passion for fostering equity and accessibility within the global genetics community. I also plan to expand this beyond clinical genetics providers in the following years, so that it helps with research, professional development and genetic counseling curriculum activities.
ABGC: Can you describe your current role? What do you enjoy most about this position?
MS: I wear several hats, all because I want to make a difference and have a voice in spaces where change can happen.
I am a senior genetic counselor in the division of pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore in New York. I provide genetic counseling services in pediatric genetics clinics, specializing in rare diseases, cardiovascular genetics and inborn errors of immunity. I also supervise my fellow genetic counselors, ensuring the delivery of good patient care while supporting their professional development. What I enjoy most about my clinical role is being one of the resources to my patients while navigating complex genetic information and supporting them as they make informed decisions. I also find fulfillment in mentoring and educational outreach, whether it’s mentoring my fellow GCs, supervising students, collaborating on research projects or guest lecturing on specialized topics like cardiogenetics and immunogenetics. This role allows me to combine my love for clinical care, research and education.
In addition to my clinical work, I am actively involved in leadership and volunteer roles. The most recent ones include serving as the 2024 president of the New York State Genetics Task Force (NYSGTF), co-chairing the International SIG at NSGC and being a member of the International Working Group at NORD and HUGO. These roles allow me to collaborate with colleagues globally, advocate for the recognition of genetic counselors and contribute to the development of genetic counseling educational materials/lectures.
These roles enable me to amplify the voices of individuals with diverse identities, foster collaboration across borders and contribute to initiatives that shape the future of our profession. These responsibilities align closely with my commitment to mentorship, advocacy and advancing the field of genetic counseling in a way that feels both impactful and meaningful to me.
ABGC: Can you share about a time you’ve been challenged in your career? How did you overcome this?
MS: One of the biggest challenges I face is dealing with imposter syndrome. I am often my own harshest critic, and I am still learning to navigate those moments of self-doubt. Growing up, I struggled with stage fright and was taught to not stand out or disagree with authority figures. But over time and with the exposure to different cultures and meeting people from various backgrounds, I am working hard to unlearn some of those limitations that hold me back and adopt new approaches that are helping shape who I am today.
As an international, my journey has come with its own set of challenges both personally and professionally. Reflection, with the intent to make a positive change, and resilience have been my strongest companions in overcoming many challenging situations. I realized early on how important it was to find my voice, particularly in spaces where my identities are underrepresented. The roles I choose are often driven by my desire to use that voice to bring about meaningful change. Whether it's advocating for women, supporting international genetic counselors or addressing other gaps I’ve encountered, I constantly remind myself to speak up when necessary, because if I don’t do it now, then who will do it? And when? Each experience motivates me to turn what was a negative situation for me into something positive for those who come after me. Resilience, reflection and willingness to unlearn/relearn have been key to my growth and continue to drive my efforts.
ABGC: What advice do you have for someone beginning their genetic counseling journey?
MS: The process of getting into a genetic counseling program and completing it is unique from other master’s programs, and it is important to recognize that others in your circle may not fully understand the challenges you may face. For me, the GC community was an incredible source of support, especially during my early years. I encourage you to identify your own support system — whether it is peers, mentors or faculty — and do not hesitate to ask for help when needed. Having people who can offer guidance and encouragement can make all the difference.
I would also emphasize staying adaptable and patient with yourself. This career can be demanding, and there will be moments when you feel uncertain. But remember that everyone’s journey is different.
ABGC: What do you enjoy doing in your free time, outside of genetic counseling?
MS: In my free time, I love exploring different cuisines and taking advantage of the fun activities that New York City has to offer. I am also working on getting back into more creative and artistic hobbies.