Turtle Shell Therapy Institute-logo-black.png

The Institute carries a mission to help everyone feel comfortable inside and outside of their shell

You don't have to leave your shell. You get to grow it.

Trauma-informed, attachment-focused therapy, consultation, and training rooted in the belief that every person carries the capacity to heal.

Welcome to the Turtle Shell Therapy Institute. This is a space built on the conviction that healing isn't about becoming someone different. It's about feeling safe enough, and strong enough, to become more fully yourself.

Whether you're a client navigating the weight of past experiences, a clinician looking to deepen your trauma practice, or a therapist seeking community and professional development, you've found a home here.

 

Who I Work With

🧭

I'm looking for therapy

Adults, teens, and children navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, and identity. Neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming care.

Get Started
🔬

I'm seeking EMDR consultation

EMDR trained therapists deepening their practice. Individual and group formats. Counts toward EMDRIA Certification.

Learn More
📚

I'm looking for trainings

Evidence-based, clinically grounded continuing education for social workers, counselors, and EMDR therapists.

View Trainings
🏫

I work in a school or ECE program

Trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming consultation and professional development for schools and early childhood settings.

Learn More
 

The Turtle Shell Therapy Approach

Every turtle carries something remarkable: a shell that is simultaneously home, armor, and self. It doesn't separate them from the world — it's what makes it possible to move through the world.

The Turtle Shell Approach is an attachment-informed, trauma-focused integrative framework built around two truths: healing requires safety and growth requires risk. Together, we build the kind of internal foundation that makes stepping out into the world feel like a choice, not a threat.

Learn About My Approach
 

“EMDR sessions with James fundamentally changed my mindset and nervous system for the better. I had run into a plateau after decades of traditional therapy, exercise, and medication. It is an incredibly powerful way to take control over your intrusive thinking and negative self-talk coming from past trauma.” -Former Client

 

Turtle Shell Values:

Influenced by the NASW Code of Ethics and One Welfare

  • Our primary commitment is to living beings in need, in all their forms

  • We challenge inequity and injustice, regardless of species or form of life.

  • Every life holds inherent worth and deserves to be treated with dignity

  • Healing happens in connection. Relationships are central to everything we do

  • We operate with transparency, honesty, and accountability

  • We practice within our areas of expertise and remain committed to growth

A Proud Partner!

Check out this resource for LGBTQIA+ people and families