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Meet the Expert Team Behind FIT50
Your Pathway to Health: A Multidisciplinary Team of Medical Coordinators, Life Coaches, Personal Trainers, Wellness Consultants, and More
Our dedicated team at Pasadena Weight Loss Center brings together various expertise to provide a comprehensive and personalized approach to your wellness journey. From medical evaluations to individualized training programs, our professionals are committed to guiding you every step of the way.
Dr. Claude Matar
Founder
Dr. Claude Matar, founded Pasadena Weight Loss Center in 1996. He is no longer in practice as he embarked on an journey to revolutionize primary care medicine using advanced technology, making lifestyle medicine available to all. While at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, he developed the FIT50 program, a natural longevity protocol for adults over 50. With decades of experience, Dr. Matar has helped countless clients reverse chronic conditions, reduce medications, and achieve their ideal weight through a holistic, science-backed approach to aging and wellness.
Rawaa Matar, MS, BS
Program Coordinator
Rawaa Hadid Matar is a dedicated health and wellness professional with over 17 years of experience at Pasadena Weight Loss Center. With a background in hospitality, business, and global cultures, she brings a unique, practical approach to helping clients reach their health and weight goals. Bilingual and business-savvy, Rawaa is deeply committed to guiding others toward sustainable, balanced lifestyles.
Dr. Garrett Cuppels
Chief Medical Officer
Dr. Garrett Cuppels serves as the Chief Medical Officer at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, providing expert oversight to ensure every treatment plan meets the highest standards of safety, effectiveness, and personalized care. While he doesn’t see patients directly, Dr. Cuppels guides the clinical team with evidence-based protocols drawn from his extensive background as an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist. His leadership ensures that every patient benefits from decades of medical expertise and a deep commitment to wellness and compassionate care.
Dr. Sanaz Forghani
Naturopathic Medical Doctor
Dr. Sanaz Forghani is a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor with over a decade of clinical experience. A graduate of Bastyr University and UCLA, she brings advanced expertise in Functional Medicine and a deep commitment to personalized care.
Known for her in-depth assessments and tailored treatment plans, Dr. Forghani helps patients achieve lasting wellness through lifestyle changes, stress management, and targeted therapies.
Alejandro Mena
Kinesiology Exercise Specialist
Alejandro Mena earned his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology: Applied Fitness & Active Lifestyle from Cal State Northridge. NASM-certified since 2019, he brings over four years of hands-on experience in evidence-based training. Alejandro is dedicated to helping individuals reach their fitness goals through structured, personalized programs that support long-term success.
Mike Kabajouzian, BS
Kinesiology Exercise Specialist
Mike Kabajouzian holds a degree in Kinesiology with a focus on Exercise Science from Cal State Northridge. His experience includes volunteering at physical therapy clinics, coaching youth basketball, and leading community fitness initiatives. With a well-rounded foundation in health and movement, Mike is passionate about helping others build strength, mobility, and confidence.
Aida Avela
Certified Nutrition Specialist
Aida Avela is a certified Nutritionist and Wellness Coach with experience in both clinical care and structured weight management programs like Optavia. Certified by Loyola Marymount University and Harvard Medical School, she uses evidence-based strategies to make healthy living both effective and accessible. Fluent in Spanish, Aida is passionate about helping clients of all backgrounds achieve long-term, balanced wellness.
Michele Lindop
Assistant Manager
Michele Lindop is the assistant manager at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, trained under the mentorship of Dr. Matar and Rawaa. Known for her dedication and strong work ethic, she plays a key role in ensuring the center runs smoothly while supporting client success. Outside the office, Michele enjoys animals, cooking, and staying active through sports.
Adan Mena
Personal Trainer
Adan Mena is a dedicated fitness professional with a background in kinesiology and athletic performance. He specializes in helping adults over 50 improve mobility, strength, and overall well-being through personalized home exercise programs and assisted stretching. With experience as a student-athlete and academic intern in collegiate sports, Adan brings energy, discipline, and a science-based approach to promoting long-term
health.
Elvis Arevalo
Bilingual Personal Trainer
Elvis Arevalo is a bilingual personal trainer, fluent in English and Spanish, and certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) since 2017. With a client-centered approach, he designs personalized fitness programs that not only enhance strengths but also address individual challenges. His dedication and adaptability have made him a trusted guide in helping clients achieve lasting, meaningful results.
Sarah Magana
Medical Assistant
Sarah Magana is a dedicated medical assistant with five years of experience and a strong commitment to patient care. Currently pursuing her nursing degree, she is two years away from becoming a registered nurse. A proud mother to a 17-year-old son who inspires her every step of the way, Sarah is driven by her passion for helping others. Outside of work and school, she enjoys staying active at the gym and cheering on the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Eric Manuel
Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach
Erik Manuel is a fitness professional specializing in fat loss, endurance, mobility, and core stability. He designs personalized training sessions that help clients move better, feel stronger, and stay injury-free—whether they’re just beginning or aiming to reach the next level in their fitness journey. When he’s not training clients, Erik enjoys spending time on the golf course, living by the belief that fitness should enhance your life, not consume it.
Mia Shao
Registered Nurse
Mia is a Registered Nurse with a BSN from the University of Southern Indiana and a Master’s in Health Informatics from UNC Chapel Hill. With a background in clinical care and wellness, she combines precision, compassion, and personalized treatments to help clients feel confident and empowered. Her gentle approach supports each client’s journey to feeling radiant—inside and out.
Elizabeth Nunneley
Registered Nurse
Elizabeth Nunneley, RN, BSN, PHN, is an experienced Emergency Department nurse with a strong background in acute care and patient-centered practice. She holds an Associate Degree in Nursing from Pasadena City College and a BSN from Azusa Pacific University. Elizabeth brings clinical expertise, compassion, and a deep commitment to wellness to every patient interaction. She continues to serve as an ER nurse and is excited to support patients on their health journey at Pasadena Weight Loss Center.
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