Susan Branco

Susan Branco, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Counseling Department at Palo Alto University (PAU), where she is actively engaged in teaching, research, clinical supervision, and advocacy. She is a transracial and transnational adoptee from Colombia, which deeply informs her scholarly and clinical work focused on adoption-related mental health, particularly for transracially adopted persons.

Education:

• PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
• MA Ed in Rehabilitation Counseling, The George Washington University
• BA in Human Services, The George Washington University

Dr. Branco's research centers on transracial adoption and mental health, Colombian adoption policy, and clinical training and supervision for BIPOC counselors. She is the originator of the Adoptee Consciousness Model, a framework that describes adoptee awareness of structural inequalities in adoption systems. Her work emphasizes social justice, cultural responsiveness, and trauma-informed approaches in counseling. She has extensive experience in both online and on-ground CACREP-accredited programs and continues to maintain an active clinical practice.

Her recent publications (2022–2024) reflect a strong trajectory in adoption research, counseling pedagogy, and cultural ethics. Themes include adoptee identity development, anti-racist curriculum design, culturally attuned teaching methods, and the psychological impact of illicit adoptions in Colombia. Many of her articles involve student collaboration, highlighting her commitment to mentorship and inclusive research practices.

Scientific Awards:

• Association of Counselor Education and Supervision Publication Award
• Association for Multicultural Counseling and Development Compadrazgo/Comadrazga Mentorship Award
• International Association of Marriage and Family Counselor Outstanding Leadership Award
• National Board of Certified Counselors Foundation Bridging the Gap Award

Dr. Branco is a dedicated mentor and advocate, having advised numerous students on research related to adoption, identity, and social justice. She has secured recognition and funding through professional organizations, though specific grants are not detailed in the text. She is a founding board member of the Alliance of Colombian Adoptees and actively promotes policy change in Colombia. Her leadership extends to international platforms, including an upcoming plenary speech at the International Conference on Adoption Research (ICAR) at the University of Minnesota in 2024.

She is also the creator of the Adoptee Consciousness Model, developed collaboratively with other transracial and transnational adoptee researchers. The model has been widely accessed and resonates deeply with the adoptee community, reflecting its accessibility and relevance beyond academic paywalls. The team continues to refine and disseminate the model through publications and international conferences.