Childhood Trauma Therapy in Pennsylvania

Healing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) • Developmental Trauma • Neglect & Abuse
Secure Telehealth Across Pennsylvania + In-Person in Lancaster

Advanced Counseling and Research Services
Office Location & Hours (Lancaster)
313 W Liberty St STE 224, Lancaster, PA 17603
Mon–Thu 9am–7pm |
Fri 9am–5pm

What Is Childhood Trauma?

Childhood trauma includes prolonged or repeated adverse experiences such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, household dysfunction, loss of a parent, or other developmentally disruptive events (often called Adverse Childhood Experiences – ACEs). These early wounds shape the developing nervous system and can affect every area of adult life.

At ACRS we use a psychotraumatology lens to gently repair the impact of early trauma, helping clients feel safe in their bodies and relationships again.

Common Effects of Unresolved Childhood Trauma

  • Attachment & trust difficulties – fear of abandonment or difficulty getting close
  • Emotional dysregulation – intense shame, anger, anxiety, or numbness
  • Negative self-worth – chronic feelings of being “broken,” unworthy, or defective
  • Relationship patterns – repeating unhealthy dynamics or staying isolated
  • Somatic issues – chronic pain, tension, autoimmune problems, or fatigue
  • Dissociation or hypervigilance
  • Self-sabotage or perfectionism

Why Pennsylvania Families Choose ACRS for Childhood Trauma Healing

  • Clinicians trained in psychotraumatology and childhood trauma recovery
  • Gentle, paced approaches that respect the nervous system’s window of tolerance
  • Evidence-based modalities proven effective for developmental trauma
  • Statewide secure telehealth + welcoming Lancaster office
  • Inner-child work, attachment repair & reparenting support
  • Free 10-minute consultation to ensure you feel safe before beginning

Our Specialized Childhood Trauma Treatment Modalities

We create individualized plans that honor your unique story:

  • EMDR Therapy – reprocess early memories safely
  • Brainspotting Therapy – access and release trauma stored in the body
  • DBT Skills Groups – build emotional regulation and distress tolerance
  • Somatic Experiencing & Polyvagal-informed therapy – restore safety in the nervous system
  • Trauma-informed CBT and mindfulness practices
  • Inner-child & attachment-focused work

Frequently Asked Questions About Childhood Trauma Therapy

Can childhood trauma still affect me as an adult?

Yes. Unresolved childhood trauma often underlies anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and self-worth issues in adulthood.

How long does childhood trauma therapy take?

Healing is personal. Many clients experience meaningful relief in 12–25 sessions, with deeper integration continuing as safety grows.

Is EMDR or Brainspotting appropriate for childhood trauma?

Yes — when delivered by trained trauma therapists, both are highly effective for reprocessing early experiences without overwhelming the nervous system.

Is telehealth effective for childhood trauma work?

Absolutely. Many clients feel safer processing childhood wounds from the comfort of their own home.

Our Childhood Trauma Specialists Serving Pennsylvania

Cheryl Wilson-Smith
Chief Executive Officer

Cheryl Wilson-Smith

"For over 20 years I have specialized in healing the deep wounds of childhood trauma. Through a psychotraumatology-informed approach combining EMDR, Brainspotting, and gentle attachment repair, we help clients reclaim safety, self-worth, and the ability to form healthy relationships. Healing is possible — even from the earliest pain."

— Cheryl Wilson-Smith, LPC, Chief Executive Officer & Certified Traumatologist

Read Cheryl's Profile

Cady R. Monasmith
Chief Clinical Officer

Cady Monasmith
  • Licensed Professional Counselor (PA-015668)
  • Certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (C-DBT)
  • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)

Read Cady's Profile

Additional clinicians trained in psychotraumatology and childhood trauma are available for telehealth and in-person sessions.

Healing Your Inner Child Is Possible

You no longer have to carry the pain of the past alone. Gentle, effective support is available now.

Book your free 10-minute consultation today!

Secure • Confidential • No obligation • Serving all of Pennsylvania

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