Marianna Branch, PhD, LPC, NCC

As a socially just humanistic counseling professional, my teaching, scholarship, and advocacy efforts are focused on eliminating the disparities and magnifying the voices of historically marginalized individuals. I am passionate about equity, inclusion, cross-cultural mentorship, and multicultural issues in counseling. As a counselor educator and counseling professional, I strive to promote personal growth, increased self-awareness, and self-empowerment for emerging counselors, clients, and mentees.

My philosophy of teaching is grounded in transformative learning theory and influenced by critical pedagogy. I firmly believe that teaching provides an opportunity to cultivate students’ personal and professional identities and help them identify their strengths and areas of growth. I value a dynamic, interactive, and growth-inducing learning environment that facilitates critical self-reflection, continual self-awareness, and ethical behavior. I am committed to creating a safe and genuine learning atmosphere for students that nurtures critical thought, active dialogue, and informed and reflective decisions.

As a counselor educator, I am committed to modeling cultural sensitivity, humility, curiosity, and social accountability. I work to build strong and trusted relationships with my students by utilizing unconditional positive regard, empathy, and modeling authenticity. My goal is to help emerging counselors expand their awareness, knowledge, and skills within a multicultural and social justice framework. Through encouragement, motivation, and experiential learning, I endeavor to help facilitate students’ development of cultural humility, empathy, and the core competencies, knowledge, and skills fundamental to becoming culturally and ethically competent counselors.

What inspired you to join the counseling profession?
After earning my bachelor’s degree in psychology, I found myself working in human resources and commercial property management. After 10 years in the workforce, I met a Licenced Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and learned all about her career. Within 20 minutes of our conversation, I felt certain about a career as a professional counselor. 

How did you become interested in counseling education?
I wanted to pay forward the mentorship, support, and encouragement I received throughout my journey. In addition to my work as an educator, I am continuing to pursue dual licenses in California (AMFT, APCC), Texas (LPC Intern, LMFT Associate), and New Jersey. 

What is so special about the culture at AGS?
The sense of community, interconnectedness, and social interest. I also innately value equity, inclusion, and diverse perspectives, all of which are celebrated and encouraged values at AGS. 

What are you most passionate about as an educator?
I recognize and appreciate the sacrifice, dedication, and perseverance needed for graduate school, especially as a working adult. I am passionate about mentorship, as well as providing an encouraging and supportive learning environment for emerging counselors. Being able to do so in our community is an incredible opportunity!