Cooper received his Master of Social Work from Arizona State University, graduating top of his class in an advanced standing program. He also graduated Summa Cum Laude with his Bachelor of Social Work from ASU, with a minor in Psychology. Prior to private practice, Cooper worked with clients experiencing a wide array of challenges at a community behavioral health provider. He also worked with college students facing personal crises as a social worker at a community college.

Cooper’s Message to Clients:

I’m Cooper Buranen, a Licensed Master Social Worker and Psychotherapist based in Arizona, offering mental health therapy for individuals and relationship systems—including couples, polycules, families, and close friendships. I specialize in working with adults of all ages who are facing anxiety, depression, trauma, identity exploration, grief, and the challenges that come with meaningful life change. My practice is rooted in the belief that healing and growth are possible when therapy is grounded in mutual trust, collaboration, and compassion.

My social work training guides a collaborative, client-centered approach. We'll develop treatment goals together, based on your needs and preferences. Psychotherapy might include action steps to support growth and change—or a more relaxed, exploratory pace. Either way, you’ll find a space grounded in compassion, flexibility, and respect for your lived experience.

In intimate partner therapy, I create space for you and your partner(s) to explore challenging, often avoided topics—such as intimacy, financial stress, or imbalance in responsibilities. Whether you're hoping to rebuild closeness, manage ongoing stressors, or communicate more effectively, I offer a nonjudgmental space to support growth in your connection.

My approach to psychotherapy encompasses a range of theories and methods. I use a strengths-based, trauma-informed, and inclusive foundation. I also draw from CBT, DBT with a mindfulness focus, as well as psychodynamic theory. I’m also passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ clients and affirming diverse relationship structures.

If you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or ready for change—even if you’re not sure what that looks like yet—I’m here to help you figure out the next step.