Today we’d like to introduce you to Ronnie Costa
Hi Ronnie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Sure, anything good I have in my life today is a direct result of sobriety. I truly believe that if it weren’t for sobriety, I wouldn’t be here anymore. When I look back at the people I grew up with and partied with, most are no longer here, or they are living life on the installment plan — whether it be in jails or institutions.
I grew up as a bit of a knucklehead in a tough neighborhood, and I had to learn how to survive at a young age. I’m a very black-and-white person, so it’s in my nature to either give something my all or do absolutely nothing at all. Growing up, I made sure I was one of the wildest in my group and did my best to make a name for myself. Unfortunately, this led me into some really bad situations and got me into trouble with the law.
The same attitude applies to everything else in my life, like sobriety and starting my business. To me, “good” is never good enough — it’s always all or nothing. Being on time isn’t just for appointments; the best people are 15 minutes early and come prepared. I like to say I give 150% at everything I do; even though that may be impossible, it’s my mindset. I strive to give 150% in everything I do today.
In business, I offer the best service and work hard to go above and beyond for everyone I work with. The same standard applies to my team; I give 150%, so I expect the same from them.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely has not been an easy road, to say the least. When I started my company, many people told me it would be nearly impossible to compete with the big, well-established companies that had huge budgets and significant visibility in the industry and on social media. My first year was incredibly tough — I started the business with just $1,500, but I kept my eyes on the prize and continued pressing forward. I used the skepticism of those who doubted me as fuel to push myself even harder.
When they said I couldn’t, I made it a point to show that I could. When they called me crazy, I set out to prove them wrong. They doubted my ability to compete, and at times, I doubted myself too, but I stayed focused and determined.
The life of an entrepreneur is tough. It involves countless hours of hard work, long days, and sleepless nights spent building a brand from the ground up. It’s exhausting, and at times it can feel overwhelming, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. I am genuinely grateful for all the bumps and detours along the way, because I’ve learned far more from my losses than I ever have from my wins.
I’ve also managed to build an amazing team — a group of dedicated and talented individuals who share my passion and drive. Together, we strive to deliver excellence in everything we do, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished so far.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My passion lies in helping others find their way out of the darkness. I have dedicated my life to assisting others through difficult times, ultimately guiding them to follow the light within and live empowered by their inner wisdom and purpose. To further my knowledge and commitment to service, I became a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC II) and a WCI-accredited coach.
As a counselor and coach, I have worked with many neurodivergent adults to create daily routines and practices that support them in living a life with dignity. Several of these clients were on the autism spectrum, and I collaborated closely with their therapists and other members of their treatment teams to support the implementation of their treatment plans. I have also worked with numerous neurotypical adults facing challenges related to mental and physical health, addiction, self-reliance, and trauma. I began my career coaching and counseling at a juvenile hall in Los Angeles, where I gained significant experience in helping clients learn to de-escalate in challenging situations. Since then, I’ve worked with clients from a wide range of demographic backgrounds. Whether a client is affluent, a well-known celebrity, a gang member, or a shy introvert, I meet each person where they are and support them as the unique individual they are, using small, actionable steps and daily practices that work for them, not against them.
Sometimes, this means simply providing safety, support, and listening more than talking. Other times, it involves helping clients examine their core beliefs and demonstrating, through my actions, how to cope with tough issues, embrace change, and pay it forward. Collaboration is key to helping clients, and I work well under clinical oversight, assisting clients in implementing and following the recommendations of their physicians, clinicians, and treatment teams.
I genuinely believe in giving 150% to everything I do. When I am not working, I volunteer with at-risk gang youth and the homeless community. In my free time, I enjoy traveling and letting my beautiful daughter choose our next adventure. I also love skydiving and seize every opportunity to jump out of a perfectly good airplane. But, as I mentioned earlier, my passion is to help as many people as I can find their way to a life they feel is worth living, because I truly believe it is never too late — until it is.
I was asked to share one life quote that resonates with me, and this gem from Mark Twain immediately came to mind: “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born, and the day you find out why.” In that spirit, I look forward to any way I can support you, your loved one, or your client.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I always encourage people to find a group of individuals they genuinely look up to and respect. Use that group as your informal therapeutic team, a network of mentors who can guide you through both the areas you want to grow in and the challenges you face. For me, having mentors has been invaluable. I’ve sought out and connected with people, especially men, who have the experience and qualities I admire, and I’ve relied on their guidance for years.
Mentors are an incredibly powerful tool because they provide wisdom, guidance, and support — often for free — in this journey we call life. A great mentor can help you avoid pitfalls, see situations from new perspectives, and keep you accountable to your goals. Networking and finding the right mentor require effort and intention. It’s about building genuine relationships with people whose values align with yours and who can challenge you to grow.
Look for communities, clubs, or professional groups where people with similar goals or interests gather. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek advice, or express your desire to learn. Be open and willing to share your own experiences as well, because mentorship is a two-way street. Remember, it’s not just about finding people who are where you want to be; it’s about connecting with those who have been where you are now.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://CounselingUNLMTD.com
- Instagram: @COUNSELINGUNLMTD
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counselingunlimited?mibextid=LQQJ4d
