James River Healing & Wholeness

This isn’t one-size-fits-all therapy—
it’s relational, embodied, and
often supported by the calming presence of a dog or two.

I help people of all ages nurture the relationships that matter most—whether that’s healing attachment wounds, rebuilding trust, deepening intimacy, or finding harmony within families. I also support birthing people and their loved ones through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, offering compassionate care for both joyful and difficult experiences. Every journey is unique, and I provide a safe, grounding space for connection, healing, and growth.

LGBTQIA+ & Kink/’lifestyle’

Psychosomatic Therapies
with Alex Orton, LCSW

Sliding Scale Short- Term Therapy, Coaching &
Case Management

Provided by
VCU Clinical Interns

Short-Term Therapy

Short-term therapy focuses on practical, effective tools to help you feel more grounded, manage stress, and navigate today’s fast-paced, uncertain world with greater resilience and clarity.

$25-hour/pay what you can ($5 minimum)

We offer personalized social work case management services to help you navigate life’s challenges with clarity and support. Whether you're seeking treatment for addiction, mental health resources, housing assistance, or other community-based services, we're here to walk alongside you—connecting you to the right support at the right time. Our approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, and rooted in dignity and respect.

$25-hour/pay what you can ($5 min)

Please call 911 in an emergency as this service is not intended for use during an active crisis.

Trauma-Informed Dog Training

Emotional Support Dog, Therapy Dog,
& Psychiatric Service Dog Training

Alex’s approach nurtures the bond between you and your dog while addressing emotional, neurological, and relational needs.

Rooted in trauma-informed care, somatic awareness, and positive reinforcement, we work with individuals and families to co-create partnerships with dogs that are supportive, regulated, and deeply connected. This is more than training — it’s a path toward embodied healing, trust, and mutual understanding.

Testimonials

“Her dedication to her clients, both human and canine, is unparalleled. She creates a safe and nurturing space where healing can truly flourish. Alex is a psychotherapist who not only understands the complexities of the human experience but also effortlessly speaks the language of our canine companions. She is a beacon of light and healing in this world, with an intuitive knack for guiding both humans and canines toward a deeper understanding of themselves and each other”. 
- Whitney English, LCSW

"Alex Orton was a dedicated volunteer at Dogs Deserve Better, making a significant impact through her multifaceted contributions. Alex fostered and rehabilitated several challenging dogs, including those with severe medical conditions and behavioral issues. Her commitment extended to community outreach, where she provided essential services such as shelter, food, and medical care to under-resourced areas. Alex's efforts also involved transporting dogs to vet appointments and adoption events, and promoting the organization's mission. We were fortunate to have Alex with us in Central Virginia, where she proved to be exceptional with both dogs and the community."

-Kimberly Hawk, Founder
Dogs Deserve Better Blue Ridge