Mary Buntin, LCSW

Mary Buntin is a Virginia-licensed LCSW with 40 years of professional experience supporting adults through life transitions, loss, and emotional distress. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker - a credential that indicates advanced training in clinical social work and psychotherapy - she draws on a long career helping people manage grief, depression, anxiety, and the many challenges that accompany significant life changes.

She has a particular interest in working with individuals entering retirement and adjusting to the changes of later life, and she enjoys supporting caregivers who are caring for loved ones with degenerative illnesses. Mary also brings experience addressing compassion fatigue and the wear that caregiving and chronic stress can create. Her approach emphasizes the central importance of the relationship a person has with themselves and the value of identifying and building on existing strengths.

Mary focuses on helping people discover the positive traits and practical resources that can assist them in responding to difficult circumstances. She approaches therapy as a collaborative process - offering support, encouragement, and guidance as individuals take courageous steps toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Approaches to Support and Transition in Online Therapy

Mary Buntin uses evidence-based techniques that emphasize strengths and practical coping. A strengths-based approach focuses on identifying the personal qualities and resources a person already has and building on them to meet current challenges - this can be especially helpful for those navigating life transitions, aging, or changes in role. Grief-focused support centers on acknowledging loss, processing difficult emotions, and finding paths toward meaning and adaptation after bereavement or major life changes. Coping skills work teaches concrete strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and the fatigue that can come from caregiving or chronic health concerns - tools that can reduce overwhelm and improve day-to-day functioning.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Mary works collaboratively with each person to determine what fits best based on their needs, goals, and preferences. She partners with clients to try methods, adjust plans, and prioritize what helps most in their situation.

Online therapy offers flexibility by allowing sessions by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, making it easier to schedule appointments around caregiving duties, medical needs, or busy lives. These options support continuity of care and make it possible to access licensed professionals and therapists from wherever a client is located within the therapist's service area.