The defender returns to the national team after battling a knee injury for almost two years.
Hickey is yet to complete a full 90 for Brentford since his return, but is now back for Scotland's World Cup qualifiers next month.
"It gives me a lot of confidence that the manager wants me back in the team as soon as possible," Hickey said of Scotland coach Steve Clarke.
"He's been good for me during my rehab. He stayed in touch and was always giving me motivation to get back in the squad.
"At the club, you see the same people every day. It's good that someone from the national team, especially the manager, checks up on you. That spurred me on.
"Whether I play or not, just to be involved again is an amazing feeling.
"I feel ready. I've had a full pre-season, played in games, got my first start in the cup. I feel like I'm a lot stronger mentally.
"You see things differently when you've been out for a long time. You don't take anything for granted. My head's in a good place."