Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) Pennsylvania

Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) is a gold-standard, evidence-based treatment for trauma and PTSD offered by ACRS licensed clinicians in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and via secure telehealth throughout Pennsylvania.

Our trauma-informed PE therapists help Pennsylvania residents process traumatic experiences, reduce PTSD symptoms, and rebuild meaningful lives — both in-person and online.

What Is Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)?

Developed by Dr. Edna Foa, Prolonged Exposure Therapy is a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that helps individuals safely confront trauma-related memories, situations, and emotions. By gradually facing what has been avoided, the brain learns that these reminders are no longer dangerous, significantly reducing PTSD symptoms.

Key Components of PE Therapy

• Imaginal Exposure: Repeatedly recounting the trauma memory in detail with your therapist in a safe environment to reduce its emotional intensity.
• In Vivo Exposure: Gradually facing real-life situations, places, or activities that have been avoided because of trauma.
• Processing & Education: Learning about PTSD, processing emotions that arise, and developing effective coping strategies.

How PE Helps Trauma & PTSD in Pennsylvania Clients

• Reduces avoidance behaviors that maintain PTSD
• Decreases the power of traumatic memories through desensitization
• Helps replace shame, guilt, and fear with realistic perspectives
• Improves emotional regulation and daily functioning
• Enhances quality of life, relationships, and work performance

Effectiveness of PE Therapy

Decades of rigorous research, including VA and civilian studies, show PE is highly effective. Most clients experience significant symptom reduction in 8–15 sessions. PE is recognized as a first-line treatment by the American Psychological Association and the VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guidelines.

PE Therapy in Pennsylvania – In-Person & Telehealth

ACRS offers both in-person Prolonged Exposure Therapy at our Lancaster, PA office and secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth PE sessions for clients across Pennsylvania. Research confirms telehealth PE is as effective as in-person delivery for most individuals.

ACRS Offers Comprehensive Trauma Care

While PE is highly effective for many, we tailor treatment to your unique needs. Other evidence-based modalities available at ACRS include:

• EMDR Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Brainspotting
• Somatic Experiencing
• Narrative Therapy

Meet Your Pennsylvania PE Therapists

Cheryl Wilson-Smith
Chief Executive Officer

• Licensed Professional Counselor (PA & FL)
• Certified Traumatologist (CT)
• Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)
• 20+ years experience with trauma & PTSD

Read Cheryl's Profile