About Us

Learn more about James River Healing & Wholeness and our holistic approach to therapy.

Our Story

James River Healing & Wholeness was founded on the belief that true healing encompasses mind, body, and spirit, and that the human-animal bond can be a powerful catalyst in this process. Located south of the James River in Richmond, VA, our practice is dedicated to providing innovative, compassionate, and effective therapeutic services for individuals seeking deeper healing and wholeness.

We combine traditional psychotherapy approaches with somatic therapies and canine-assisted interventions to create a unique healing environment that addresses the whole person. Our therapists are highly trained professionals with specialized expertise in trauma recovery, somatic approaches, and the therapeutic applications of the human-animal bond.

Our Philosophy

At James River Healing & Wholeness, we believe that:

  • Healing happens in relationship—with self, others, animals, and the natural world
  • The body holds wisdom and is an essential part of the healing journey
  • Each person's path to healing is unique and deserves a personalized approach
  • The human-animal bond offers unique opportunities for growth and healing
  • Integration of diverse therapeutic modalities creates deeper, more sustainable change

Our approach is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and grounded in the latest research in neuroscience, attachment theory, and animal-assisted interventions.

James River

Meet Our Team

Alex Orton

Alex Orton, LCSW

Alex is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with specialized training in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy, and Animal-Assisted Therapy. With over a decade of experience working with trauma survivors, Alex brings compassion, creativity, and deep expertise to each therapeutic relationship.

Sam

Sam

Sam is a certified therapy dog with a calm, gentle presence. His intuitive nature makes him particularly skilled at supporting clients through difficult moments, offering comfort without judgment. Sam specializes in grounding work and emotional regulation support.

Moseph

Moseph

Moseph brings playful energy and joyful presence to our therapy team. As a certified therapy dog, he excels at engagement and motivation, making him an ideal partner for clients who benefit from more active interaction and play-based interventions.

Therapeutic Approach

Our Integrated Approach

At James River Healing & Wholeness, we believe in meeting each client where they are and creating a therapeutic experience tailored to their unique needs and goals. Our integrated approach draws from multiple evidence-based modalities, including:

  • Psychotherapy and EMDR for addressing trauma and other mental health challenges
  • Somatic therapies that engage the body's wisdom in the healing process
  • Canine-assisted interventions that leverage the healing power of the human-animal bond
  • Mindfulness and contemplative practices that foster present-moment awareness
  • Nature-based approaches that connect clients with the healing power of the natural world

We view these modalities not as separate approaches but as complementary pathways to healing that can be woven together to create a transformative therapeutic experience.

Our Credentials

Our therapists maintain the highest standards of professional practice, with credentials and specialized training including:

  • Master's level education in clinical social work or counseling
  • State licensure as mental health professionals
  • EMDR certification through EMDRIA
  • Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) training
  • Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy certification
  • Animal-Assisted Therapy certification
  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) training
  • Continuing education in attachment theory, neuroscience, and culturally responsive practice

Our therapy dogs are certified through recognized therapy dog organizations and receive ongoing training to ensure they can provide safe, effective therapeutic support.

Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey?

Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation and learn more about how our integrated approach can support your path to healing and wholeness.