Nicholas A. Cummings is a visionary, an entrepreneur, a mover and shaker in the field of psychology and psychotherapy. He is a prolific writer and producer, and his accomplishments have been chronicled for many years. However, these secondary sources do not offer a holistic view of his achievements or of the man behind them. Nor can Nick's ideas be fully understood unless they are examined in the context in which they evolved. Nick's myriad contributions to psychology are inextricably linked to the politics, economics, social fabric, and professional development of his times. His inspiring story shows that no matter how chaotic the environment, unwavering resolve and diligence can bring about meaningful change.
But Nick is much more than his work-impressive as that is. He is a remarkable human being whose personal odyssey makes for a fascinating read. This biography aims to recount Nick's journey and show how adversity helped forge Nick's dynamic character-from the childhood losses he experienced and the physical and psychological barriers he overcame to the depth of his desire and commitment to see the profession he has long loved and served achieve the potential that remains just out of reach. It is also a love story, revealing how the extraordinary guidance of two extremely strong, astute women helped smooth Nick's path and how close family ties continue to motivate him.
Carol Shaw Austad, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist, a Professor of Psychological Science, and the co-coordinator of the Peace Studies minor at Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Connecticut, where she has taught students in psychology courses since 1987. Dr. Austad has had extensive clinical experience in a variety of settings, including as intern at Connecticut Valley Hospital; staff psychologist at Hall Brook Hospital, a private psychiatric inpatient facility; outpatient psychotherapist at Community Health Care Plan, a model Health Maintenance Organization on the East Coast; and in private practice with individuals, groups, families, and the developmentally disabled. She has published in the areas of health care systems, biofeedback and stress management, substance abuse, and psychotherapy. Her scholarly research/writing has informed her teaching at CCSU. Carol has traveled extensively to examine systems of health care in other countries. She lives with her husband, Robert Swarr, and their three mini dachshunds, Hoover, Speckle, and Stretch.