Therapist
Cristy Bixler
LCSW
Compassionate LCSW focused on practical progress
Opens BetterHelp in a new tab. There you can look at online therapy options.
Step 1
- Person-centered care
- Strengths-based focus
- Practical skills
About Cristy
Cristy works in a person-centered, strengths-based way. She listens with empathy and focuses on what each person already does well. She uses Motivational Interviewing to help people find reasons to change. She also draws on cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy tools when they fit the person's goals.
Her sessions are tailored to each person’s needs. She helps people set small, practical goals and practices new skills in session. Conversations cover coping skills, managing emotions, relapse prevention for addictions, and improving communication with others.
Cristy has seven years of professional experience as an LCSW in Illinois. That background includes work with adults and children with intellectual disabilities and the families who support them. She aims to make sessions understandable and useful for everyday life.
People who meet with Cristy can expect a calm, nonjudgmental space to talk through problems and try new approaches. She focuses on clear steps and steady support to help people move toward the changes they want.
Step 2
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
7+ years
Credentials
Illinois
Languages
English
Step 3
How Cristy’s Approaches Work Online
Cognitive behavioral therapy helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and try different behaviors to change mood and outcomes. It is often used for anxiety, depression, and patterns of avoidance or self-defeating behavior.Motivational Interviewing focuses on finding personal reasons to change and boosting readiness. It uses gentle questions and reflection to help someone weigh options and set their own goals.
Finding the right approach is part of the work together. Cristy will talk with each person about goals and preferences and will suggest which methods to try. The process is collaborative and adjustments are made as needs become clearer.
Confirm the available session options before booking so you know how sessions are delivered. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy day, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when schedules demand them. It can also let people use sessions when they are in a quieter setting or need lower bandwidth options. Ask about session lengths and scheduling when you complete the matching questionnaire to find a practical plan that fits your life.
Step 4
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does Cristy address?
She supports people with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, self-esteem, relationship and intimacy concerns, parenting and caregiver stress, ADHD, and issues related to intellectual disability.
How would you describe her therapy style?
Cristy uses a person-centered and strengths-based approach with active, empathetic listening. She tailors sessions to each person and focuses on practical, doable steps.
What is her background and experience?
She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with seven years of professional experience, including work involving adults and children with intellectual disabilities and their families.
Where is Cristy licensed and practicing?
She holds an Illinois LCSW credential and practices in Illinois.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English and she does accept international clients.
What session formats are available?
Please confirm current session options before booking so you know which formats are offered for scheduling.
How are sessions paid for and what about cost?
Costs vary with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Choose the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to the therapist's availability.
Step 5