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What You Need to Know
Rapid Emotional Reset is a body-based trauma therapy that works without requiring you to retell traumatic memories — unlike EMDR, which typically involves guided recall. RER was developed by Nev Winkworth from lived experience and has helped many Melbourne clients who preferred a gentler approach. Both therapies aim to process trauma; they simply use different methods. A free 15-minute discovery call is available to help you decide if RER feels right for you
What Is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a well-established, researchbacked trauma therapy developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It uses bilateral stimulation — typically guided eye movements — to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories. Many people have found significant relief through EMDR, and it remains a recommended treatment for PTSD in clinical guidelines worldwide
When EMDR Might Not Feel Right
Some people find that EMDR doesn’t suit them. Common reasons include: discomfort with guided eye movements, feeling overwhelmed by the need to recall traumatic memories, or finding that talk-based or memory-focused approaches don’t bring the relief they hoped for. If any of this resonates, it’s worth knowing you have options
Note: This is not a criticism of EMDR — it’s simply an acknowledgment that different approaches work for different people.
Both aim to help you process trauma. Here’s how the approaches differ
RER and EMDR — A Respectful Comparison
Aspect | Rapid Emotional Reset (RER) | EMDR |
|---|---|---|
Approach | Body-based awareness and
structured emotional processing | Bilateral stimulation (eye
movements, taps, or sounds) |
Memory Recall | No detailed retelling required | Typically involves recalling
traumatic memories
|
Session Count | 1–3 sessions often produce
noticeable shifts | Typically 6–12+ sessions |
Creator | Nev Winkworth (lived-experience
practitioner) | Francine Shapiro, PhD
(research-based |
Evidence Base | Growing client outcomes;
emerging research | Extensive research base; clinically
validated |
Best For | Those preferring not to discuss
trauma in detail | Those comfortable with memory
recall and eye movements |
Structure | Flexible, guided by your body’s
responses | Protocol-driven, 8-phase
structured approach |
Neither approach is ‘better’ — the right choice depends on your personal preferences, comfort level, and what you’re seeking from therapy
Why Some Melbourne Clients Choose RER
Prefer not to retell traumatic memories. Many clients say the idea of recounting their experiences felt too confronting. RER doesn’t require this
Seeking faster relief. Some clients noticed meaningful shifts in fewer sessions than they’d experienced with other approaches.
Want a gentler experience. RER’s body-based approach can feel less intense than memory-focused therapies.
Value lived experience. Clients often say Nev’s personal understanding of trauma created an immediate sense of safety
Note: “These are real reasons shared by RER clients — not criticisms of EMDR
See If RER Fits You
From Clients Who’ve Tried Both
Based on 25 five-star Google reviews
I tried EMDR for six months. It helped, but I always felt drained after sessions. With RER, I felt lighter after the first appointment. The difference for me was not having to go back through every detail.
Rachel D.
Former EMDR client, now RER
Verified client
EMDR was useful but I couldn’t handle the memory work. RER felt safer for me. I could process things without having to describe them out loud.
David L.
Melbourne clien
Verified client
Individual experiences vary. These testimonials are personal accounts and not clinical evidence
RER and EMDR — What’s the Difference?
EMDR is a well-established trauma therapy that many people find effective. RER offers a different approach. Both aim to help you process trauma — they simply use different methods
What’s a Discovery Call?
A free, 15-minute phone conversation with Nev. No obligation, no pressure. It’s a chance to ask questions, understand how RER works, and decide if it feels like the right fit for you. Nev will listen to what you’re experiencing and honestly let you know if he believes RER can help.
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Free of charge
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No obligation to book
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15 minutes
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Ask anything about RER
What We’ll Discuss
1. What brought you to look for trauma support
2. What you’ve tried before (including EMDR if relevant)
3. How RER works and what a session looks like
4. Whether in-person or online suits you better
5. Any questions you have before deciding
Note: The call is confidential and there’s no pressure to commit.
