Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons is an award-winning psychologist, author, educator, researcher, and leader known for her groundbreaking work in sexual wellness, pleasure, and mental health equity—all grounded in a love ethic.

Dr. Hargons is the 2027 President-Elect of the American Psychological Association (APA) and an associate professor at the Rollins School of Public Health,` Emory University. She holds degrees from Spelman College, Georgia State University, attended Howard University, and earned her PhD at the University of Georgia.

As the director of the SMASHER Lab (Study of Mental and Sexual Health Equity in Relationships), Dr. Hargons leads dynamic research focused on promoting sexual wellness, health equity, and mental well-being. She serves as the Principal Investigator on the NICHD-funded ADD SEX FUN study. Her lab’s expansive portfolio also includes the SAMHSA-funded Neighborhood Healers Project—which trains community members in Mental Health First Aid to boost mental health literacy and reduce stigma—as well as major community-centered research initiatives like the Big Sex Study.

A prominent leader in national governance and scientific research, Dr. Hargons has served on the Board of Directors for the APA, is a Fellow in APA Division 17 (Society of Counseling Psychology), and is a Fellow of the Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality. Her contributions to research, advocacy, and leadership have earned her an APA Presidential Citation. Beyond academia, she consults widely with major organizations, school systems, and higher education institutions on mental health literacy, institutional competence, and sexual health awareness.

Dr. Hargons’ expertise has been featured across leading media platforms, including The New York Times, Essence, HuffPost, Women's Health, Good Housekeeping, and Blavity.

Her debut book, Good Sex: Stories, Science, and Strategies for Sexual Liberation, was published by Row House February 2025.