James River Healing & Wholeness
Love. Light. Dogs.
This isn’t one-size-fits-all therapy—
it’s relational, embodied, and
often supported by the calming presence of a dog or two.
Our Therapies
With the support of her compassionate canine co-therapists, Sam and Mo, Alex offers a deeply personalized approach to therapy that honors the wisdom of both mind and body. Blending Parts Work, somatic therapies, hands-on support, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Alex gently helps clients reprocess attachment wounds and find relief from the lasting effects of complex trauma.
Our somatic therapies focus on the connection between mind and body, helping clients process emotions through physical awareness.
Short-term therapy focused on practical, effective tools to help you ground, 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.
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