What is NLP and How Can it Help You?

The acronym NLP stands for Neurolinguistic Programming. It is a method that can be used by trained practitioners, often psychologists, to help clients break through old, ineffective, mental patterns and establish new, empowering, ones. The method was developed by Richard Bandler and John Grinder in the mid-70s. 

Using NLP techniques, the therapist will guide the client through a series of visualization techniques that invoke the senses. Sight, hearing, touch, even the senses of smell and taste may be invoked. 



One of the basic premises is to reframe experiences so that they better serve the client. For example, let’s imagine a client has a fear of public speaking. When the client imagines speaking in front of a group, his throat feels tight, and his knees feel as if they will buckle. A skilled NLP therapist will have the client think of an activity in which he feels confident, and then the therapist will help the client reframe his experience. One the reframing is complete, the client will feel confident when speaking in public. 

An NLP therapist may work with clients who wish to lose weight, exercise more, quit smoking, break bad habits, among other things. It can be used to enhance sports and job performance, just about any area where thoughts and perceptions may hold people back. 



Unlike many standard forms of psychotherapy, NLP tends to work quickly. Some clients may see changes after just one or two sessions. 

Depending on regional regulations, NLP therapists might not be required to be licensed. It is still important that those who are interested in an in-person NLP session should look for a qualified and ethical NLP therapist. There are a number of training schools for this therapy, and it is best to look for a therapist who has had extensive and high quality training. 

If an in-person session does not fit into the client’s budget, he or she may want to try canned audio program. Obviously, the therapist will not be able to personalize the session to the client’s individual needs and perceptions, but some people may still benefit.