Trauma is not always about a single devastating event. It can stem from ongoing stress, difficult relationships, emotional neglect, chronic illness, or other life experiences that leave a lasting impact. At The Counseling Collective, we understand that trauma can shape how you view yourself, others, and the world around you. It may show up in ways you do not expect: intrusive thoughts, nightmares, difficulty trusting others, emotional numbness, or physical symptoms you cannot explain. Whether your trauma is a “big-T” trauma or a “little-t” trauma, recent or decades old, we are here to support your healing with a range of trauma-informed therapies.
We believe healing happens through a compassionate, client-centered approach. Our therapists are trained in evidence-based modalities that help clients safely process trauma and reclaim their sense of safety, identity, and connection. Below are some of the approaches we use:
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
EMDR is a powerful, research-backed therapy for reprocessing traumatic experiences. It is especially effective for distressing memories that feel vivid and stuck, such as a car accident, an assault, or chronic patterns rooted in childhood. EMDR helps the brain reprocess these experiences so they lose their emotional charge.
Michelle is an EMDR Certified Therapist. She works with clients at our East Petersburg office, as well as online.
Becca sees clients at our East Petersburg location, as well as online.
Michele is trained in EMDR and uses it within a broader trauma-informed framework tailored to each client’s needs. She sees clients at our East Petersburg location, as well as online.
TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
TF-CBT is an evidence-based approach for children, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma. It combines cognitive restructuring with emotional regulation and gradual exposure to support healing. Our clinicians work with individuals navigating trauma from abuse, loss, and chronic stress, helping them rebuild safety, trust, and a healthier sense of self.
Rachel is trained in TF-CBT and sees clients at both of our locations, and online.
Michele is trained in TF-CBT and sees clients at our East Petersburg office and online.
Sand Tray
For those who struggle to put their trauma into words, especially children, teens, and highly sensitive individuals, sand tray therapy offers a creative, nonverbal way to explore and process experiences. This bottom-up approach supports nervous system regulation and emotional integration through symbolic play and storytelling.
Siloe incorporates artistic methods like sand tray therapy and art therapy as she works with clients. She sees clients at both of our locations, and online.
Kelsa has training through the Association of Play Therapists in sand tray therapy and other bottom-up processing models. She is also IFS-informed, drawing from Internal Family Systems principles in her work with trauma. Kelsa’s approach emphasizes the healing power of safe expression and internal connection. Kelsa sees clients at our East Petersburg office and online.
Other Trauma-Informed Practices
Many of our therapists integrate trauma-informed care into their work, even outside of specific modalities. We work to create a sense of safety, empowerment, and choice throughout the therapy process, respecting your pace and your story. This may include grounding techniques, somatic awareness, narrative processing, and attachment repair work.
Rachel utilizes emotional coherence therapy and memory reconsolidation to support clients with complex trauma and trauma-based dissociation by helping shift core emotional beliefs. Rachel sees clients at our East Petersburg and Downtown Lancaster offices, as well as online.
If you are unsure which approach is right for you, we are happy to help you explore your options. Every journey with trauma is different, and we are here to walk alongside you with warmth, respect, and expertise.
If you want to process trauma and reclaim your sense of identity, please contact us to schedule an appointment. You can do so by filling out our Schedule Appointment form on our website or call 717-723-8040 to schedule with our Client Coordinators. Additionally, you can view the insurances we participate with, and you can read more on self paying for therapy.