Dr. Hickman's office, bookshelves and desk

Step into my office...

Where the hard work (and joy) generally happens.

About Me

If you want to get to know me as an author, then you'd have to know a bit about me as a person.

Susan Hickman's graduation from Univ. of MN with PhD

The Psychologist

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with doctoral training, having earned graduate degrees from Vanderbilt University, the University of Minnesota, and Argosy University. I have been in practice since 2007 and have worked in clinical settings across Tennessee, Washington State, and Alaska.

Although I currently serve as a forensic psychologist, my work has always focused on meeting people with respect and supporting meaningful change in their health, perspective, and lives.

Susan E Hickman, PhD, at her desk in Chattanooga

The Writer

I have written for as long as I can remember. Reading and writing stories were simply part of how I learned to make sense of the world. What began as curiosity grew into a sustained commitment to expressing ideas in ways that matter—to me and to others.

My writing has taken many forms, from academic publications and professional training materials to articles on mental fitness, courses on emotional well-being, and now both nonfiction and fiction works in progress. At its core, what I do—and what I love—is to write.

Colorful fused glass art with reds, oranges, greens and yellows

The Artist

When I’m not working or writing, I’m usually in my art studio, Red Swan Glass Art. I discovered fused glass while working for the Air Force in Alaska, and have been drawn to it ever since.

What I love most about glass is its versatility—the way it can be transformed into everything from wall art and tableware to vases and ornaments, each piece shaped by process as much as imagination.

The Person

Few things matter more to me than my family. Although our children, Victoria and Wes, live in different states, we gather each year in St. Petersburg, Florida to rest, reconnect, and reflect on the year behind us.

If I accomplish nothing else, having cherished my husband, Steve, our children, and our beloved cats is more than enough.