Arnold Acquah, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Arnold!

Welcome. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I use a collaborative, person-centered approach to therapy, focusing on supporting clients with OCD and anxiety-related disorders to build coping skills, reduce distress, and improve daily functioning.

My focus

I typically work with adults (18+) who are motivated to actively engage in therapy, including completing work both in and outside of sessions. I am most comfortable treating individuals committed to the therapeutic process, particularly those experiencing OCD and anxiety-related conditions.

My approach

My therapeutic approach primarily uses Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold standard treatment for OCD. Therapy is collaborative, person-centered, and grounded in consent. I work with clients to gradually face fears, reduce compulsive behaviors, and improve quality of life by addressing impairments related to symptoms.

My communication style

I create a compassionate, structured environment focused on building trust and understanding your goals from the first session. While ERP involves learning to tolerate uncertainty and distress, I provide steady support and collaboration, balancing warmth with clear guidance to help clients stay committed to effective OCD treatment.

My journey to mental healthcare

I was drawn to this career by my ability to empathize with and motivate others. I’m driven by seeing clients experience symptom relief, improved quality of life, and renewed engagement in meaningful, value-based activities that help them live more fulfilling lives.

My goals for you

I set goals collaboratively, helping clients identify obsessive thoughts, triggers, feared outcomes, and compulsions. We create a personalized, ethical plan that prioritizes safety and the client’s voice. Discharge is collaborative, beginning with treatment titration based on progress and a thoughtful transition.

Our first session

In the first session, clients can expect a thorough review of their history related to symptoms, impairments, and treatment goals. We also complete intake forms to support a holistic understanding of your needs and create a strong foundation for personalized care.

I identify as...

Male
Black or African American

Expertise

Specialties

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

+ 4 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Exposure Response Prevention

Mindfulness-Based

+ 3 more

Focus populations

Gay

LGBTQIA+

Queer

Racial Justice

+ 4 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts
Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied

+ 55 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) in Community Mental Health from California State University, Fullerton.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Arnold Acquah