Cali Babey, PsyD

Who am I as a therapist
As a therapist, I strive to create an affirming therapy environment where my clients feel seen, understood, and safe. I value authenticity and believe in the healing power of connection and relationships. I also understand and appreciate that vulnerability and connection may not come easy and that it can take time for clients to feel safe enough to share and be vulnerable.  

I see my clients as unique individuals and will tailor my approach to what you want for yourself, your level of readiness, and your life journey.  We will work together to co-construct your goals so that your life may better align with your desires and values.  

I hope to spark an appreciation for compassionate self-inquiry which drives self-acceptance and deeper life satisfaction. My approach is relational, feminist, and trauma-informed. I also integrate somatic, mind-body, and mindfulness-based interventions into my work with clients. I am consistently humbled by the opportunity to be a part of my clients’ healing journeys. I am excited to meet you; you are welcome here. 

Who do I work with
I work primarily with adults and young adults and specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ identified individuals and their loved ones. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are navigating life transitions and identity development. I offer individual, relationship counseling, and family sessions.  

My areas of interest
I work with clients facing a variety of concerns that relate to and impact holistic wellness. Such concerns may include stress, depression, anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, as well as experiences of racism, sexism, oppression, and discrimination.

I welcome the exploration of identity and intersectionality as it impacts wellness and fully embodied living. I am particularly passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community and have been dedicated to advocacy, learning, and empowerment within the community for over a decade. I am also certified in yoga-informed therapy and am in the process of learning and integrating NARM, the NeuroAffective Relational Model of trauma treatment, into my work with clients as appropriate.

How I practice
I do not use a “one size fits all” approach for each client I work with. My approach to therapy is relational and strength-based and is tailored to meet the needs of each individual. I invite focus on what is already going right by highlighting clients’ strengths and help to reinforce and bolster strengths in these areas. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for self-exploration and work with each client to collaboratively develop goals for therapy. I utilize strategies to promote insight, awareness, healthy coping, relaxation, empowerment, and holistic wellness. And I support my clients in increasing connection to themselves and their communities to increase feelings of support, belongingness, and purpose.

My background
I completed my doctorate in clinical psychology at Roosevelt University in Chicago. While completing my doctoral degree, I previously trained at Centered Therapy Chicago under the supervision of Dr. Bianka Hardin and am happy to return to CTC now as a post-doctoral fellow and therapist. Most recently, I trained at Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital in Hoffman Estates, with adult clients impacted by mood disorders, psychosis, and chemical addictions. Previously, I worked with youth and adults in a variety of settings. I worked in the inpatient department at Hartgrove Behavioral Health Hospital and provided individual and group psychotherapy focused on healing trauma, anger management, emotional regulation, and cognitive-behavioral skill development.

Later, I gained experience in a suburban private practice setting conducting comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for the purpose of diagnostic clarification and treatment collaboration with other providers, including therapists, physicians, and schools. Before moving to Chicago, I also worked as a mental health counselor for an in-home crisis-intervention program for at-risk youth and their families. I have been actively involved in the LGBTQ community for over 15 years now and have had the pleasure of working with some fantastic LGBTQ organizations across the country, including Center on Halsted here in Chicago, True Colors Inc. in Connecticut, and the Creating Change Conference of The National LGBTQ Task Force. 

Anything else?
I understand that beginning therapy for the first time or transitioning to a new therapist can feel overwhelming. While therapy may be an unfamiliar arena for you, I commend you for exploring this option and taking steps towards improving your wellbeing. I am happy to be part of a team at CTC that offers flexible affordable services to those in need and can offer sliding scale rates, if available. If you would like to learn more about what therapy may look like for you or your family, please feel free to contact me.  

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, the first step for all new clients is to complete this form. For additional information, please visit our New Clients page or contact intake@centeredtherapychicago.com or call (773) 569-1468.