Matthew Banooni, AMFT

Matthew Banooni, AMFT

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Matthew is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and a background in Psychobiology from UCLA. With a strong foundation in the sciences, he has a particular passion for helping clients understand the mind-body connection, and how it shapes their experiences.

Matthew works with clients of all ages, providing a warm, supportive
environment where individuals can process difficult emotions, gain new perspectives, and move toward authentic growth. Matthew enjoys working with diverse populations who are open to engaging in meaningful treatment to uncover root issues, shift perspectives, acquire effective coping skills, and reclaim a sense of control in their lives. His clinical focus spans a wide range of concerns including medical trauma, men’s issues, athletic performance, family challenges, anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation through the use of a holistic and integrative lens.
Being an athlete from an early age, Matthew understands the significance of resilience, growth
through challenges, and the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and communication.

Using these values, Matthew helps clients thrive as they work towards growth, healing, and resilience. Additionally, as an artist and musician, Matthew brings creativity, deep listening, and a respect
for the healing power of expression into his work as a therapist. He understands that growth is a
process – much like creating art and music – and loves to help clients find new ways to express
themselves, discover their inner rhythm, and move towards balance, harmony, and self-compassion.

Matthew takes pride in developing personalized treatment plans that honor each individual’s strengths, goals, and unique path toward healing. Those who have worked with him often describe sessions as filled with great energy, empathy, laughter, and genuine care. Above all, Matthew strives to create a collaborative and safe space where clients feel seen, supported, and
empowered.

 

Matthew Banooni, AMFT is supervised by Dr. Kanchi.

More About Matthew Banooni, AMFT

Education

  • MA, Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, Pepperdine
    University
  • BA, Psychobiology, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Works With

  • Children (5-10)
  • Pre-Teens (10-12)
  • Teenagers (13+)
  • Adults (18+)
  • Families

Modalities

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Art and Music Therapy
  • Holistic and Integrative Therapy

Areas of Focus

  • Medical Trauma and Recovery
  • Athletic Performance and Stress Management
  • Men’s Mental Health and Identity
  • Cultural, First-Generation, and Immigrant Experiences
  • Relationship and Family Dynamics (including dating, marriage, divorce and parenting)
  • Student- and School-Related Challenges
  • Grief, Loss, and Life Transitions
  • Self-Esteem and Identity Exploration
  • Anxiety, Depression, and Emotional Well-Being

Fun Facts

  • Matthew has been playing basketball for as long as he can remember, and also spends a lot of time on the tennis court. He enjoys watching just about any sport, especially basketball, football, tennis, and soccer.
  • Matthew is happiest when he’s traveling, discovering new foods, or at a concert singing
    along to live music.
  • Matthew’s favorite movies are Gladiator and The Lion King. His favorite shows are Sons
    of Anarchy and Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Ready to get started?

Ready to get started? Start your journey towards resilience and mental well-being today by contacting us to schedule a consultation.