Caitlin Hickman
Counsellor
How do you identify yourself?
My name is Caitlin, my pronouns are she/her, I grew up in Te Whanganui-a-Tara and I identify as queer/bisexual, I also manage some invisible health conditions and disabilities. These are all a part of my identity and influence how I exist in the world.
If you had to introduce yourself in one paragraph, what would you say?
Kia ora! I’m Caitlin, I grew up in Te Whanganui-a-Tara and have been here my whole life. I am a counsellor who fell into the career by accident! After dropping out of university at 17 I worked full-time in a bakery and in retail for a few years, while I found a direction which felt right, and, after signing up for a degree in counselling in 2016, I finally found that direction! I am passionate about my work as a counsellor, and as someone who struggled a lot with mental health, identity, and stress throughout my own youth, I am grateful for the opportunity to support our rangatahi in such a connected and supportive environment. Outside of my work enjoy playing video games, tabletop games, and D&D. I live with two wonderful flatmates as well as our two amazing cats. I am also in the process of doing further postgraduate study in psychology.
What is your star sign?
Pisces and Leo
What is a fun fact about you?
I have a wonderful one-eyed cat named Goji (named after Godzilla!) and a gorgeous two-eyed cat named Miso (like the soup).
What is your favorite food?
Savoury French toast or soup dumplings
Who is your celebrity crush?
Gerard Way
If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be?
I’ve always enjoyed floristry, baking and other creative and tactile pursuits. So maybe something like that!
What were you like at school?
I was absent a lot due to illness, mental health, and low-motivation, I struggled to pay attention in math and science (I still struggle with this) but I really loved media studies, drama, and spending time with friends and playing games.
What’s your karaoke song?
”24 Hour Cinderella” from the Yakuza 0 soundtrack
What’s something you’ve always wanted to learn?
Another language. I am hoping to begin a journey into learning Te Reo and NZSL over the next few years.
What’s something that really annoys you?
When people put wet tupperware away with the lids clicked on before they can dry and they get all musty and gross
Do you have a treasured possession?
I have many treasured possessions from the many treasured people I have shared my life with. Though if I had to pick……technically the cats are considered possessions (legally), so I’d say the cats!