Brian Runge, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor | CARE Counseling, Inc.
Brian Runge, MA, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor at CARE Counseling, Inc. He works with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, substance misuse, and disability-related stress, integrating psychodynamic counseling, mindfulness, and culturally responsive care. In-person appointments are available at CARE’s Gold Coast, Chicago office, with telehealth available throughout Illinois.
Clinical focus: Adolescents and adults; anxiety and depression; cPTSD, PTSD, trauma; substance misuse; disability-related stress; dissociation and dissociative identity disorder (DID).

About Brian
Do your emotions or actions sometimes feel out of step with how you want to live? When stress, anxiety, or everyday challenges become overwhelming, reaching out can be difficult. I offer an empathetic, supportive space to explore what is happening and identify changes that feel meaningful to you.
My approach is holistic, grounded in psychodynamic counseling, multicultural awareness, and ethical practice. I draw on mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed approaches to explore how your individual experiences, relationships, culture, and history influence your present concerns. Together, we will work to understand patterns and develop practical ways to navigate life’s challenges.
I believe empathy, advocacy, and unconditional positive regard can support personal growth and empowerment. Whether you are ready to address something you have been avoiding or simply need help finding your next step, I will meet you with curiosity and respect. Our work will build on your strengths while making room for greater understanding and choice.
Education
- Northwestern University | Evanston, IL
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Maryville College | Maryville, TN
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology/Counseling
Therapeutic Approaches and Professional Skills
- Psychodynamic counseling
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Mindfulness-based approaches
- Multicultural counseling
- Trauma-informed care
- Neuroscience integration in counseling
- Attachment-informed conceptualization
- Community psychology and social justice
- Ethical practice
Location and Appointments
- In-person appointments: Gold Coast, Chicago, Illinois
- Telehealth: Available throughout Illinois
Frequently Asked Questions
What concerns does Brian Runge help with?
Brian works with adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, substance misuse, and disability-related stress.
What is Brian’s approach to counseling?
Brian uses a holistic approach informed by psychodynamic counseling, Internal Family Systems, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. He considers attachment, culture, relationships, and personal history in understanding clients’ concerns.
Where are appointments available?
In-person appointments are available at CARE’s Gold Coast, Chicago office, with telehealth available throughout Illinois.
Next Step
Contact CARE Counseling, Inc. to ask about working with Brian in Gold Coast, Chicago or by telehealth in Illinois, current openings, and the intake process.
