Why NLP?

NLP as a form of coaching and therapy is particularly useful for changing the way our thoughts, feelings and behaviours work together. NLP has its roots in psychology and linguistics and can be best described as a ‘cognitive-behavioural’ model. Aspects of NLP have a lot in common with CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).

To understand what NLP is about, it’s easiest to break NLP into its three areas:

Neuro - refers to the brain and the nervous system and the way our senses; seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling and tasting (both remembered and constructed), influence our personal experience, our perspectives and perception.

Linguistic - refers to the way we use language to communicate with others, our inner dialogue and our body language.

Programming - refers to our thought processes and strategies, as well as our language and behaviour patterns.

If you’ve been reading about NLP on the internet, you’ve probably noticed that different people talk about NLP in different ways. One of the reasons for this is the NLP model is complex and can be applied in many different ways. So it’s important to make sure you understand your NLP Practitioner’s approach and their underlying philosophy before you book an appointment.

Unlike much counselling which focuses on talking about your problems or your past, the NLP methodology is more focused on your goals and ‘where you want to be’ and building ways to help you move in that direction.

NLP works fast. It is what’s called a ‘process-based approach’ to therapy. I call it ‘More doing, less talking’. A typical NLP session is packed with tips and strategies, such as; creating positive anchors, changing unhelpful thinking patterns, managing your emotions, reframing thoughts, building on your strengths and developing ways to empower yourself.

My clients often tell me they wished they were taught these strategies at school.