Shelby Caudill, MA

(she/They)

Languages: English

* Welcome *

You feel like you’re alone, confused, and overwhelmed. You aren’t sure how to even start figuring out who your authentic self is. You may think that because of things you’ve experienced that you are broken, or don’t deserve to live an authentic and satisfying life. No matter who you are or what you’ve experienced, you deserve a space where you feel safe to explore these feelings. I’d be honored to facilitate your safe space and be a part of your journey to authenticity and fulfillment. 


* My Focus *

I specialize in working with people who have experienced acute trauma, gender/sexuality concerns, depression, anxiety, and neurodivergence. LGBTQ folks, kinksters, and people living with chronic pain or disability are communities I am particularly connected to working with. In session I enjoy facilitating client’s self exploration and building on that exploration towards self acceptance and nurturance.


* My Approach *

My therapeutic approach is based in Existential Counseling Theory and Internal Family Systems theory. Isolation, anxiety, freedom, death, and meaninglessness are topics often discussed in session in pursuit of better understanding ourselves. Working together we can find, create, or adjust the meanings you’ve attached to experiences or relationships. We may work on acknowledging and thanking parts of yourself that no longer serve you, deepening self compassion and understanding.


* My Philosophy on Therapy *


My practice is informed by trans liberation theory, pleasure activism,  decolonization, and intersectionality. Humans inherently crave connection, and oftentimes there are invisible lines drawn by systems of oppression that keep us divided. In therapy I believe that it is important to recognize these invisible barriers to connection and consider how they show up in our work together. I believe that therapy is a place for non-judgmental self exploration, healing, and growth.


* Credentials & EXPERIENCE *

  • Pending LPC in Illinois

  • MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Roosevelt University 

Before transitioning into private practice work at Practical Audacity I have worked in a wide variety of settings: Inpatient psychiatric units, residential group homes, community mental health, and juvenile correctional facilities to name a few.


* MORE ABOUT ME *

I grew up in Southern Ohio and moved to Chicago for graduate school because I craved the excitement and diversity of a big city. The decision may or may not also have something to do with the fact that Chicago has the most lesbian bars in the entire USA. You can find me at a K-pop concert, baking something yummy in the kitchen, or just hanging out with my cat Richard.