EMDR Therapy for Trauma & PTSD – Evidence-Based Relief
Office Location & Hours (Lancaster)
Why Choose ACRS for EMDR Therapy for Trauma & PTSD?
- Expert EMDR Therapists – Fully trained and experienced clinicians
- Proven Results – Gold-standard treatment for single-incident and complex trauma
- Statewide Access – Secure online from anywhere in Pennsylvania + in-person in Lancaster
- Flexible & Compassionate Care – Sessions tailored to your needs
- Free 10-Minute Consultation – Honest answers, no pressure
How EMDR Helps Trauma & PTSD
EMDR is the gold-standard, evidence-based treatment for trauma and PTSD. It helps your brain reprocess stuck traumatic memories so they lose their emotional power and no longer trigger intense symptoms.
- Reduces flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance
- Decreases avoidance and emotional numbness
- Replaces negative beliefs (“I’m broken,” “The world is unsafe”) with healthier ones
- Often works faster than traditional talk therapy for trauma-related issues
The 8 Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR follows a structured 8-phase protocol developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro. This proven framework ensures safety, thorough preparation, and lasting results. Here’s what each phase involves:
Phase 1: History Taking & Treatment Planning
Your therapist gathers your history and identifies target memories to create a personalized plan.
Phase 2: Preparation
You learn grounding and coping skills so you feel safe and in control throughout the process.
Phase 3: Assessment
You identify a specific target memory, rate distress, and choose positive beliefs to install.
Phase 4: Desensitization
The core reprocessing phase. Bilateral stimulation helps reduce the emotional charge of the memory.
Phase 5: Installation
Strengthen and install positive beliefs about yourself while using bilateral stimulation.
Phase 6: Body Scan
Check for any remaining physical tension and clear it with bilateral stimulation.
Phase 7: Closure
Every session ends with stabilization techniques so you leave feeling calm and grounded.
Phase 8: Reevaluation
At the next session we check progress and decide next steps.
Most clients notice significant relief within the first 3–6 reprocessing sessions. Single-incident trauma often resolves faster, while complex or developmental trauma may take 12–20+.
EMDR Therapy for Trauma & PTSD – Backed by Research
EMDR is one of the most thoroughly researched and endorsed treatments for trauma and PTSD.
World Health Organization (WHO)
EMDR is recommended as a first-line treatment for PTSD in both adults and children.
American Psychological Association (APA)
Strongly recommended for PTSD. Considered a gold-standard trauma therapy.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs & Department of Defense
One of only two therapies with the highest level of recommendation for PTSD.
Key Research Findings
A 2014 meta-analysis in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders found EMDR significantly more effective than other trauma-focused therapies for reducing PTSD symptoms.
A large 2018 study showed 77% of participants no longer met criteria for PTSD after just 8 sessions.
Individual results may vary. While EMDR is a well-researched, evidence-based treatment endorsed by major health organizations, it is not a guaranteed cure. We will discuss realistic expectations and whether EMDR is appropriate for your unique situation during your free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR for Trauma & PTSD
How many EMDR sessions for trauma & PTSD? ▶
Will I have to talk about the trauma in detail? ▶
Is EMDR covered for trauma & PTSD in Pennsylvania? ▶
Can EMDR for trauma be done 100% online? ▶
What if I’m not sure EMDR is right for my trauma? ▶
Our EMDR Therapists
Cheryl Wilson-Smith, LPC – Chief Executive Officer
"I have over 20 years of experience in In-Person and Online EMDR Trauma and PTSD Therapy. I guarantee that the EMDR Therapy for Trauma & PTSD ACRS provides is of the highest quality in Pennsylvania."
Take the First Step – Free Consultation
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