Welcome to Lighthouse Counseling. Therapy is based upon boundaries and trust. Please carefully review the following information since it is the foundation on which the counseling relationship is built.

Mary Kate Hunt, MSW, Clinical Social Worker

Professional Disclosure Statement

Education and Licensure:

  • Bachelor’s of Social Work, Lindenwood University, St. Charles, MO 2021
  • Master’s of Social Work (MSW), University of Kentucky, 2023
  • Concentration & Certification in Clinical Social Work, University of Kentucky, 2023

Experience: I have experience in an elementary school, Children’s hospital and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, senior living facilities, and military childcare settings. I completed my practicum as a researcher under the supervision of a PhD LCSW at the University of Kentucky, focusing on Transition Aged Youth in foster care and social work burnout.

Population Served: I have a special dedication to helping children navigate their intense emotions and teaching emotional regulation and positive coping skills. My practice additionally includes adolescents, teens, young adults, and military spouses dealing with anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and self-esteem issues. 

Professional Standards: I abide by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) code of ethics. 

Therapeutic Orientation: 

In counseling, I believe each person can enhance their life skills, solve problems effectively, and build confidence through positive changes. My approach focuses on recognizing strengths, and I strive to empower individuals by providing encouragement, support, and gentle challenges. By addressing thoughts and behaviors that hinder emotional well-being, I aim to foster healthier emotional regulation and coping skills. I use a strength-based approach and an integrative style of counseling from several APA (American Psychological Association) therapeutic research based interventions. I respect the beliefs of all of my clients. My approach to therapy is grounded in Christian values, which I integrate respectfully when appropriate. While my guidance is influenced by these beliefs, your comfort and alignment with them are important to me. If you have any doubts or specific questions before we start working together, please feel free to ask—I’m here to help. Additionally, I may suggest reading books or using workbooks that I believe can support our sessions and provide extra assistance.

Training and Certifications: I have specialized training in the Biopsychosocial approach, Person-Centered Approach, Strengths Perspective, and a blend of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, IFS, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Music Therapy.

As a client, you have the right to be an informed consumer and as such may choose the provider which best suits your needs. You may also request a referral to another counselor or ask for a change in the treatment approach. You have the right to seek a second opinion about your condition and treatment. It is important that counseling be a safe place for you.

Contact Info

  • (757)-376-8167 (Suite 213)

  • (757)-439-9411 (Suite 202)

  • desk@lighthouse-counselingllc.com

  • 505 S Independence Blvd, Suite 213 Virginia Beach, VA 23452

Emergency numbers

  • National Suicide Hotline – 988
  • Fire-Police-Rescue – 911
  • Crisis Text Line – 741741