A Little About Us…
Change Happens happened quite naturally, actually – or organically. The practice grew out of an initial commitment to help clients feel like they were getting better on their own, with the support of their therapy.
The practice name, Change Happens, is a positive play on the saying, “Shit Happens.” If shit can happen, well, so can change. We focus on the quality of change. By employing basic principles and philosophies, we make sure our clients are being heard and understood.
We focus on what works for each client. We make it a point to be present, safe, responsive and interactive. We encourage clients to do the same, which means being actively involved in their therapy, asking questions, disagreeing and practicing the very changes we are working toward in the therapy itself. Change is not something that occurs outside of the therapy relationship, rather more along-side.
Change Happens grew out of a part-time private practice, after Renee Simone obtained her license for social work in January 2004. The business incorporated in 2008. We are supportive of spiritual energy, committed to de-stigmatizing labels, and we practice with cultural awareness.
Renee Simone
Renee has a master's degree from Smith College School for Social Work. She is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She is internationally certified in co-occurring disorders and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy, which can help clear symptoms of panic, anxiety or depression. Renee works with individuals, couples, families, adolescents and groups. She believes addiction is a form of trauma to the mind, body and spirit, and she specializes in integration of mental health and substance abuse issues.
Christian Smith
Christian has a master's degree from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. His areas of expertise include family dynamics, trauma, addictions and stress management. Christian works with individuals, adolescents and families.
Douglas Foresta
Doug has a masters in social work from Springfield College and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. His work is informed by his background as a playwright and theatre instructor, and areas of expertise includes the role of creativity and narrative therapies in overcoming trauma and addictions. He works with individuals and families.
See Doug's latest offerings on our staying strong page!
Andrew Oxman
Andrew has a master’s degree from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. His therapeutic approach is relational, collaborative, and client-centered. His areas of expertise include recovery from various forms of trauma, healing from depression, grief and loss, and addressing stress, self-esteem, and spirituality issues. He works with adults and couples. Andrew is also fluent in Spanish.
Kathleen Simone
Kathleen has dual master's degrees in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice from Western New England College. She is in the dissertation phase of completing her doctoral degree in Human Services with a concentration on Criminal Justice from Capella University. Kathleen is an intern, accepting clients who have BMC Healthnet or Neighborhood Health Plan. Her areas of expertise include addiction, trauma, domestic violence and mandated clients. Kathleen works with children, families, couples and individuals. She also provides outreach services.
For information on insurances accepted by other providers, please see Insurance and Fees.