About Us

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 a Board Certified, Licensed Nurse Practitioner in both Adult and Gerontology and Psychiatric Mental Health specialities. She obtained her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Quinnipiac University and Postdoctoral Psychiatric Mental Health Certification from Regis College. She continues with her training 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 physical, mental health and substance abuse issues. She has a waiver to prescribe Suboxone in the treatment of opioid dependence.

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.

For information on insurances accepted by other providers, please see our Insurance and Fees.

Information current as of 08/2021.