From what you describe, I think your orchid is a Phalaenopsis. It is normal for the spike to die back and they generally bloom once a year.
If you try to rebloom Phalaenopsis that are not mature, it can be detrimental to its health. Orchid roots nead air around them in order to survive. Potting soil is not a suitable media to plant them in. Wandering roots outside the pot are normal.
They like a bright window without any sun at all. They need to be watered at the rate of one day per inch of pot. 4" pot, water every four days.
Welcome to the website and the forums. If you look through the Orchid Forums there are a few threads there addressing Phalaenopsis and their care. Again welcome!!
