EMDR Therapy for Trauma & PTSD
Lancaster • Virtual Pennsylvania-Wide

Fast, lasting relief from nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety & hypervigilance — often in 6–12 sessions.

Advanced Counseling and Research Services
Advanced Counseling and Research Services Office
Office Location & Hours (Lancaster)
313 W Liberty St STE 224, Lancaster, PA 17603
Mon–Thu 9am–7pm | Fri 9am–5pm
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ACRS Home > EMDR Therapy Pennsylvania > Trauma & PTSD
EMDR Therapy for Trauma & PTSD – Advanced Counseling & Research Services

Why Pennsylvania Clients Choose ACRS for EMDR Therapy

Expert

Every EMDR clinician is experienced — No trainees.

Fast

Most clients see dramatic relief in 6–12 sessions — backed by 30+ years of research and our own outcomes data.

Flexible

In-person in downtown Lancaster or 100% virtual anywhere in Pennsylvania — same proven protocol, same results.

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Consultation

Why EMDR Is the Gold Standard for Trauma & PTSD

  • ✓ Dramatic relief in 6–12 sessions (vs. years of talk therapy)
  • ✓ No need to relive every detail — bilateral stimulation does the work
  • ✓ Endorsed by WHO, APA, VA & DoD
  • ✓ Covered by nearly all major insurance plans

"70–90% of PTSD clients experience significant symptom reduction after 8–12 EMDR sessions."

— Meta-analysis of 30+ studies (APA, 2024)

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The Proven 8-Phase Process (6–12 sessions)

1–2
History & Planning
We map targets & teach coping tools
3–6
Reprocessing
Bilateral stimulation reduces distress fast
7–8
Closure & Install
Positive beliefs replace old ones

What Should I Expect in an EMDR Session?

Eight Phases of EMDR Therapy

  1. Initial Consultation: During your first session, we will discuss your emotional concerns and treatment goals.
  2. Preparation: You will learn about EMDR and how the process works to ensure you feel comfortable and safe.
  3. Assessment: We will identify specific memories and triggers to target during the sessions.
  4. Desensitization: Through guided eye movements, we will help you process distressing memories.
  1. Installation: Positive beliefs will be reinforced to replace negative thoughts.
  2. Body Scan: This phase helps identify any lingering physical tension related to the trauma.
  3. Closure: Each session concludes with a relaxation technique to ensure you feel grounded.
  4. Re-evaluation: We will check in on your progress in subsequent sessions.

Conditions Successfully Treated With EMDR Therapy

✓ PTSD & Complex PTSD
✓ Panic Attacks
✓ Childhood Trauma
✓ Phobias
✓ Anxiety Disorders
✓ Depression (trauma-linked)
✓ Grief & Loss
✓ OCD rooted in trauma

Frequently Asked Questions

How many EMDR sessions will I actually need? >
Most clients feel significant relief in 6–12 sessions. Single-event traumas often resolve in 3–6 sessions. Complex or childhood trauma may take 12–20+. We give you an honest, personalized estimate after your free 10-minute consultation.
Will I have to talk about the trauma in detail? >
No. You only share what you’re comfortable with — the bilateral stimulation does most of the heavy lifting.
Is EMDR covered by insurance in Pennsylvania? >
Yes — nearly all major plans cover EMDR when billed for PTSD, anxiety, or depression. We verify your benefits for free in under 5 minutes.
Can EMDR be done 100% online? >
Yes — research shows it’s just as effective as in-person. We use secure video with on-screen or headphone bilateral stimulation.
What if I’m not sure EMDR is right for me? >
That’s why we offer a free 10-minute phone consultation with a certified EMDR therapist — no pressure, just honest answers.
Yes – Schedule My Free Consultation Now

Cheryl Wilson-Smith
Chief Executive Officer

Cheryl Wilson-Smith, EMDR Therapy Expert and Chief Clinical Officer.
  • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC);
    • Pa. Lic. PC006514
    • Fl. Lic. TPMC1044 
  • Certified Traumatologist (CT)
  • National Certified Counselor (NCC)
  • Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC)
  • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)
  • Certified in Emergency Crisis Response (CECR)
  • Neuropsychotherapist Certified (NPT-C)
  • Master of Arts (MA)
  • 20+ years of clinical experience.
  • Worked with clients across the lifespan.

Cheryl Wilson-Smith is a distinguished expert in EMDR therapy and proudly holds the position of Chief Clinical Officer. Her dedication to healing and transformative care sets her apart in the field, making a meaningful impact on countless lives.

Read Cheryl's Profile

"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 and PTSD ACRS provides to our clients is of the highest quality in Pennsylvania".

— Cheryl Wilson-Smith
Cheryl Wilson-Smith's Linked IN Profile

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