Christine H. Stryjewski

MBA, MSW, LCSW, CADC Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor

If you are searching for a therapist in Downers Grove, IL, a licensed counselor for anxiety or depression, or a CADC for alcohol and substance use concerns, you are in the right place.

I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy for adults, teens, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, grief, ambiguous loss, addiction, and life transitions.

My approach is grounded in clinical expertise, medical insight, and a deep respect for each client's individual experience.

Anxiety & Depression Therapy in Downers Grove, IL

Anxiety and depression can feel isolating, overwhelming, and exhausting. Whether you are experiencing chronic worry, panic symptoms, low mood, loss of motivation, or difficulty functioning day-to-day, therapy can help you regain stability and clarity.

I use evidence-based treatment modalities tailored to your unique needs, helping you:

Develop effective coping strategies
Improve emotional regulation
Reduce intrusive thoughts and worry
Rebuild motivation and self-confidence
Strengthen relationships

Together, we focus on practical tools and meaningful insight to help you move forward with confidence.

Grief & Ambiguous Loss Counseling

Grief is not always straightforward. In addition to traditional bereavement, I specialize in ambiguous loss - the type of grief that occurs when there is no clear closure or resolution (such as chronic illness, estrangement, addiction, or significant life changes).

My formal training in oncology-related support allows me to work closely with individuals and families coping with:

Cancer diagnoses
Chronic or terminal illness
Caregiver stress
Anticipatory grief
Complex family dynamics during medical crises

You do not have to carry that weight alone. Therapy provides a space to process, make meaning, and find stability during uncertain times. Addiction Counseling (CADC) - Alcohol & Substance Use Treatment As a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC), I provide specialized treatment for individuals and families impacted by substance use. Whether you are:

Questioning your relationship with alcohol
In early recovery
Supporting a loved one struggling with addiction
Navigating relapse prevention

I offer structured, nonjudgmental, evidence-based support designed to promote sustainable change and long-term wellness. Couples & Family Therapy in Downers Grove Relationships can become strained under the weight of stress, addiction, grief, or mental health challenges. I work with couples and families to improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional connection. Our work may focus on:

Conflict resolution
Supporting a loved one through addiction or illness
Parenting stress
Emotional disconnection
Major life transitions

What Makes My Approach Different

My goal is to create a safe, balanced space where each person feels heard and understood. Before becoming a therapist, I worked in the field of Ophthalmology providing medical care, which gives me a unique perspective when supporting clients navigating health-related anxiety, chronic illness, or complex medical systems. With both clinical and medical experience, I understand the intersection of physical and emotional health - and how deeply connected they are.

My advanced degrees (MBA and MSW) also allow me to integrate clinical expertise with practical problem-solving, organization, and real-world application.

Evidence-Based, Compassionate Care

My therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based treatment modalities, meaning the strategies we use are supported by research and proven effective. At the same time, therapy is never one-size-fits-all. I tailor each treatment plan to your specific goals, strengths, and circumstances.

I believe healing happens when clients feel:

Safe
Heard
Respected
Empowered

Start Therapy in Downers Grove, IL 60515

If you are looking for:

A therapist for anxiety or depression in Downers Grove
A grief or ambiguous loss counselor near 60515
A CADC for alcohol or substance use treatment
Couples or family therapy

I invite you to take the first step. Reaching out can feel difficult - but you don't have to navigate this alone.

Contact the office today to schedule your consultation

Contact

Affirm Behavioral Health, PLLC Achieves Accreditation from the Better Business Bureau

Downers Grove, IL -02/11/2026 - It is with great pride that Affirm Behavioral Health, PLLC announces its recent accreditation by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). This esteemed recognition is awarded exclusively to businesses that adhere to the BBB's stringent eligibility standards.

BBB Accreditation is extended solely by invitation," states Steve J. Bernas, President & CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois. "It is a privilege reserved for companies that consistently demonstrate the highest standards of business practice, as determined by our Board of Directors after a rigorous review process.

As an Accredited Business, Affirm Behavioral Health, PLLC is dedicated to upholding the BBB Code of Business Practices. This comprehensive code outlines a series of policies, procedures, and best practices focused on fostering trust, maintaining integrity, promoting honest advertising, and ensuring truthfulness in business operations. "To retain their accreditation status, businesses must operate with transparency, fulfill their promises, address client needs promptly, and protect their privacy," adds Bernas.

Christine H Stryjewski, CEO of Affirm Behavioral Health, PLLC," expresses her enthusiasm: "We are honored to receive BBB Accreditation. In the current business climate, it is crucial for our clients to understand the seriousness with which we approach our commitment to excellence and superior customer service. Our BBB Accreditation is a testament to that commitment.

Affirm Behavioral Health, PLLC BBB Business Review