Howard Acosta

Howard Acosta offers practical, fast-acting psychotherapy for people who feel stuck and want relief that comes sooner rather than later. With 24 years of clinical experience, he focuses on teaching rapid, science-based coping strategies that produce measurable shifts in relaxation, self-control, and mood.

His clinical approach emphasizes clear, actionable techniques taught up front so clients can start using them immediately. Howard is the author of UCoping and UCoping: Interactive Edition, both available on Amazon, and the methods described in those books are the same tools he applies in session. He aims to help clients consolidate new skills into lasting habits in a short course of care - often within one to five sessions - and then triages for transition to longer-term therapy if that is needed.

Howard blends an active faith with professional training and the academic foundations of clinical psychotherapy. He is a licensed clinical social worker in California (CA LCSW 74837), a credential that reflects advanced training and authorization to provide psychotherapy in the state.

He treats a range of concerns including stress, anxiety, addictions, LGBT-related issues, parenting difficulties, anger management, grief, self-esteem struggles, depression, and coping with life changes. He also works with sexual identity distress - not sex addiction - and will address co-occurring drug or alcohol issues when applicable. Howard treats symptoms related to anger management and psychosis but does not treat personality disorders, and he offers parenting psychoeducation as part of care. His work is grounded primarily in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with elements of Motivational Interviewing and Solution-Focused Treatment, delivered in a calm, warm, and compassionate style that can include faith, spiritual, or religious discussion when appropriate.

Howard’s goal is to get people unstuck quickly and to equip them with skills they can use for life.