Welcome to NLP

NLP is an approach to communication and development created by Richard Bandler (a psychologist) & John Grinder (a linguist) in the 1970’s. It is based on how to effectively use the language of the mind to consistently achieve our specific and desired outcomes. 

Neuro: Refers to the brain or mind, particularly around how states of mind (and body) affect communication and behaviour. 

Linguistic: Our mind and body states are revealed in our language and non-verbal communication (self-talk). Language is the tool we use to gain access to the inner workings of the mind. 

Programming: Refers to the many unconscious patterns or habits of learned behaviour which run our lives.

Modelling, action and effective communication are key elements of NLP. The belief is that, if an individual can understand how another person accomplishes a task, the process may be copied and communicated to others so that they too can accomplish the task. 

Proponents of neuro-linguistic programming propose that everyone has a personal map of reality. Those who practice NLP analyse their own and other perspectives to create a systematic overview of one situation. By understanding a range of perspectives, the NLP user gains information. 

Advocates of this school of thought believe the senses are vital for processing available information and that the body and mind influence each other. Neuro-linguistic programming is an experiential approach. Therefore, if a person wants to understand an action, they must perform that same action to learn from the experience.

"NLP is an accelerated learning strategy for the detection and utilisation of patterns in the world"  John Grinder

How it works

An individual’s map of the world is formed from data received through the senses with the information being received through the following:

• auditory - hearing
• visual - sight
• olfactory - smell
• gustatory- taste
• kinesthetic - feelings/touch

NLP practitioners believe this information differs from person to person in terms of importance & quality, and that each person processes experiences using a primary representational system (PRS).

When working with a client, an NLP practitioner attempts to match that individual’s PRS to their personal map. NLP practitioners believe it is possible to access representational systems using cues, such as eye movements.

NLP practitioners believe there are natural hierarchies of learning, communication, and change. The six logical levels of change are:

• Purpose and spirituality:  This can be involvement in something larger than oneself, such as religion, ethics, or another system. This is the highest level of change.
• Identity: Identity is the person you perceive yourself to be and includes your responsibilities and the roles you play in life.
• Beliefs and values: These are your personal belief system and the issues which matter to you.
• Capabilities and skills: These are your abilities and what you can do.
• Behaviours: Behaviours are the specific actions you perform.
• Environment: Your environment is your context or setting, including any other people around you. This is the lowest level of change.

Proponents of NLP believe everyone’s perception of the world is distorted, limited and unique. An NLP practitioner must therefore understand how the person being coached perceives their “map” and the effect this perception may have on that person’s thoughts and behaviour. 

NLP practitioners work with people in order to understand their thinking and behavioural patterns, emotional state and aspirations.

By examining a person’s map, the practitioner can help them identify and strengthen the skills that serve them best and assist them to develop new strategies to replace ineffective ones. This process can help individuals being coached reach their goals. 

Since its creation, neuro-linguistic programming has been used to treat a wide range of issues. These have included (but not limited to):

• Limiting Beliefs
• Anxiety, phobias, and panic
• Communication Issues
• Post-traumatic Stress
• Depression
• Attention deficit hyperactivity
• Addiction
• Schizophrenia
• Obsessions and compulsions
• Borderline personality