Nick DeSimone

Dr. Nicholas DeSimone's (PhD) life and career reflect a remarkable journey of transformation, service, and purpose. Before dedicating himself to behavioral health, Nick built a strong foundation in banking, achieving success in a field known for its precision and discipline. Yet, even as his career thrived, he felt an undeniable pull toward something more profound that involved helping people heal rather than focusing on numbers and profit. This internal calling prompted him to leap of faith and completely change his life’s direction. That decision became the cornerstone of a career defined by compassion, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of others.

Nick’s path into behavioral health began when he worked as an addictions counselor. During his first four years in the field, he worked closely with individuals confronting substance use disorders, guiding them with empathy and practical care. These experiences not only strengthened his understanding of addiction but also reinforced his belief that recovery requires more than just treatment—it requires hope, patience, and connection. His dedication and natural leadership soon led him to the position of Director of Substance Abuse Services at a private outpatient facility. In this role, he managed programs and mentored clinical staff while developing a vision for a treatment model that would treat the whole person, not just their symptoms.

That vision came to life in June 2017 when Dr. DeSimone opened Lifetime Recovery in Mullica Hill, New Jersey. Founded on the belief that individuals deserve comprehensive care and long-term support, the center offers personalized programs that address recovery's physical, emotional, and mental dimensions. Each client receives individualized attention designed to foster personal growth and sustainable change. Under Dr. DeSimone’s leadership, Lifetime Recovery has grown into a respected name in the field, known for its compassionate approach and lasting impact on clients’ lives.

Continuing his mission to promote wellness beyond addiction, Dr. DeSimone established Renewed Light Mental Health in April 2021 in West Deptford, New Jersey. This outpatient center provides care for individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, and grief. Renewed Light was built on the same foundation as Lifetime Recovery—a belief in holistic healing and the importance of personalized treatment. Through this expansion, Nick has continued to help people build inner strength, resilience, and confidence as they work toward emotional balance and stability.

Dr. DeSimone’s academic and professional background demonstrates his ongoing pursuit of excellence. He earned a Bachelor of Science from Rowan University and a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling from Grand Canyon University in 2015. He later completed his PhD in General Psychology with a focus on Performance Psychology in April 2021, a field that explores how mindset and mental discipline contribute to success and well-being. Professionally, he became a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) in 2017 and obtained his Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential in 2022, solidifying his credentials as a clinician and a leader.