Cristyl Word
About
Hi there! My name is Cristyl and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I have worked in a variety of settings throughout the years to include public schools, an inpatient psychiatric facility, the criminal justice system, and virtual mental health sessions. Populations I have assisted in their journey to mental health and wellness include college students, adults, and the elderly; physically handicapped, intellectually disabled, emotionally disturbed, and seriously mentally ill. My life experiences have molded me into a genuinely empathetic clinician who is able to connect with clients and help to empower them as they heal and grow. I am also a mother and hold a full time position in a state job, so my clients will be asked to be flexible with me from time to time. I return flexibility to them with respect, as I will explain in the first session.
I have worked in a variety of settings throughout the years to include public schools, an inpatient psychiatric facility, the criminal justice system, and virtual mental health sessions.
First session
It takes a lot of strength to make your first therapy appointment. When you attend the first session, you are demonstrating to yourself and to me how resolved you are to better yourself. Congratulations! Our first session will focus on building a confidential and therapeutic relationship while I gain a thorough understanding of the reason you are seeking counseling. Please know that transparency will allow me to help you but if you are uncomfortable answering any questions in the first session, feel free to say so. I respect your honesty and I want your therapeutic experience to be helpful, not anxiety-provoking.
Strengths
The varied life experiences I've had, including my diverse workplace environments have created my therapeutic style which is warm, empathic, and strength oriented. I believe in active therapy. Clients are encouraged to work on their skills and tools between sessions to adapt to behaviors and thoughts that benefit their goals and life. It is through this clinical work that I believe clients are best able to realize their potential growth and maintain positive change. I use therapeutic modalities individualized to the client, but music and mindfulness are key components of my practice.
Ideal clients
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of assisting clients in the areas of trauma (childhood and/or complex), depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, anger management, self-harm, grief/loss, distress from life situations/transition, challenging behavioral problems, substance use, self-esteem, stress management, and interpersonal skills. I only work with adult clients.
Treatment methods
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Remaining in the present moment is a key component to my therapeutic method.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have experience providing both individual and group therapy using CBT and have found it to be profoundly beneficial to clients.
Motivational Interviewing
This method is a cornerstone of my approach as it assists clients in gaining insight and independence.
Location
Virtual sessions