NLP - Neuro Linguistic Programming - is all about examining thoughts, behaviours and language that relate to a specific outcome and identifying where this could be creating problems and limits. NLP tools and strategies help individuals to overcome these challenges and take different steps to reach a specific goal.
How does it work
The fundamental premise of NLP is that if someone can understand how another person has accomplished a task or achieved a certain mindset, this can be copied. We all have a personal map of our own ‘reality’ and being able to see, learn and appreciate new views and perspectives can expand what we believe we are capable of. NLP takes an experiential approach to learning and growth - i.e. if someone wants to understand an action then they need to perform that action to learn from the experience. NLP is centred around six logical levels of change that are:
- Purpose and spirituality i.e. something larger than yourself.
- Identity (the person you perceive yourself to be and the roles you play in life).
- Beliefs and values - the things that really matter to you.
- Capabilities and skills (i.e. your abilities and what you can do).
- Behaviours, meaning the specific actions that you perform.
- Environment - this is the people and around you, the context or setting. It’s also the lowest level of change in NLP.
Belief is not reality
NLP promotes the premise that just because we believe something to be true doesn’t mean it actually is - and looks at how to get out of the limits this can impose on our lives. Working with an NLP therapist provides the opportunity for someone to understand their thinking and behavioural patterns, emotional state and aspirations. Looking deeper into the ‘personal map’ that we all have can show where this is negatively affecting our aspirations and behaviours. This is something that enables a person to find new strengths and skills and to develop new strategies and tools that can help someone to overcome the challenges that are being created by a distorted view of the world.
What is NLP used for - and does it work?
NLP has been used to treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, panic, communication problems, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, addiction, schizophrenia, borderline personality as well as obsessions and compulsions. Like any type of therapy or coaching it will be as effective as the effort and intention that is put into the process. However, there is now an increasingly large bank of evidence that suggests NLP is a very effective tool for people who are struggling with issues such as these. Another key factor in whether NLP is likely to be effective is the therapist who delivers it. There is a lack of training and certification in NLP, which has meant that some practitioners don’t have the right experience or skills to be effective. It’s important to choose to work with the right person.
NLP is a type of therapy that can have a very significant impact when experienced in partnership with the right therapist, in the right way. Find out more by booking onto our Introduction to NLP training course.