Cristy Bixler , LCSW

Cristy Bixler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in Illinois with seven years of clinical experience. She works with people facing depression, stress and anxiety, addictions, unresolved grief, trauma and abuse, and challenges with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. Cristy also supports individuals who self harm or engage in self defeating behaviors, and she has experience assisting adults and children with intellectual disabilities along with their families.

Cristy practices from a person-centered, strengths-based perspective and emphasizes meeting clients where they are. Her approach integrates Motivational Interviewing to support change, along with active empathetic listening and evidence-informed techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). She tailors conversation and treatment plans to each person’s unique needs while treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion.

Cristy frames therapy as a collaborative process and aims to empower clients as they take steps toward a more fulfilling life. She focuses on practical skills, emotional processing, and building resilience so clients can address current concerns and move toward meaningful, sustainable change.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on the client's own goals and strengths, offering a supportive space where the therapist follows the client's lead and helps them explore what matters most. This approach is useful for people seeking empathetic, individualized support for a wide range of concerns.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps clients identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns by teaching practical skills and coping strategies. It is often used for anxiety, depression, and difficulties with mood or motivation.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) emphasizes emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and improved interpersonal effectiveness, making it a strong option for people who experience intense emotions, relationship struggles, or self harming behaviors. Cristy works collaboratively with clients to determine which approach or combination of approaches best fits their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress unfolds.

Online therapy with Cristy is available by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to access consistent support, practice new skills between sessions, and maintain continuity of care regardless of location, while working with licensed professionals and therapists who tailor treatment to each individual.