Getting a 7 1/2 month old to fall asleep on her own?

My 7 1/2 mth old will only fall asleep if I'm holding her & giving her a bottle. Is now the time when I should be putting her in her crib and basically letting her 'cry it out'? I feel so bad doing that, but I know thats how they learn. I have heard of the ferber technique and will probably go that route. I just don't want to eventually end up with a toddler who is dependent on mommy & daddy to help her fall asleep.