Grounded in neuroscience and clinical practice, RET is a structured, relational approach to memory reconsolidation that helps clients reclaim their sense of self.
Learn a brief, effective therapy that can resolve PTSD and also protects
therapists from vicarious trauma
Radical Exposure Tapping (RET) is a structured, relational protocol for working with traumatic memory at the level of emotional encoding and identity. It is a brief, effective form of exposure therapy that helps clients quickly resolve traumatic memories driving PTSD, anxiety, and emotional reactivity. In fewer than ten sessions, clients often experience lasting relief, while therapists are protected from the vicarious trauma common in traditional talk therapy.
RET follows a clear, structured protocol, enabling therapists to map key memories and guide clients through systematic resolution. The results are often fast and profound—clients feel hope and peace, and therapists regain a sense of fulfilment and impact.
RET training supports clinicians delivering Focussed Psychological Strategies (FPS) under the Better Access initiative. Training includes evidence-based techniques such as imaginal exposure, memory reconsolidation, and emotional regulation—all recognised FPS components.
Upcoming Training Workshops
Dr Laurie MacKinnon developed RET by taking elements of two forms of intervention, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), and combining them in a unique way.
Over several years she analysed and perfected this method and produced hundreds of videos of live sessions with the goal of empowering other clinicians to use these skills. Since 2012, she has taught RET to over 1500 mental health practitioners all over Australia and internationally,
About Laurie MacKinnon PhD
Dr Laurie MacKinnon is an experienced trauma therapist and the creator of Radical Exposure Tapping (RET)—a powerful, structured method for treating PTSD and resolving traumatic memories. With over 30 years in clinical practice, Laurie brings a deep understanding of trauma, emotional healing, and therapeutic change.
Originally from Calgary, Canada, Laurie trained as a clinical social worker and worked as a family therapist at the Family Therapy Program in the Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary—an internationally recognised centre of excellence. After moving to Sydney, Australia, she completed her PhD and became a leader in the training and supervision of family therapists.
Over the last 15 years, Laurie has focused on developing Radical Exposure Tapping (RET)—a somatically grounded, evidence-informed trauma therapy that integrates memory reconsolidation, emotional regulation, and a strong therapeutic stance. She has trained more than 1,500 clinicians across Australia and internationally, helping them deliver effective, client-centred trauma care. Laurie also offers regular supervision groups and maintains a growing library of live clinical demonstration videos for practitioners.
"When clients change slowly or not at all, therapists feel powerless and demoralized. While bearing witness to memories of disturbing or harrowing events, therapists themselves can experience vicarious trauma. Some of the most talented and compassionate therapists may eventually withdraw from this work."
The Book
Straight to the Heart: Radical Exposure Tapping and the Transformative Healing of Trauma.
Laurie’s upcoming book is both a practical guide and a window into real therapy sessions. With detailed case transcripts, annotated tapping sequences, and therapeutic reflections, this book helps therapists master RET in a clear, grounded way. Available in print and digital editions.
RET in Practice – Blog
Articles and reflections on trauma, identity, memory, and therapy practice. Stay updated with insights from Laurie, case stories, and news about RET in Australia and beyond.
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This site provides information about RET training and is for professional therapists.
If you want to book a session with Laurie, please visit Insite Therapy & Consulting.