NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) Getting Started With Courses

A Little bit of Background

Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) was originally developed in the 1970’s; by John Grinder and Richard Bandler.  The aim is to make  ‘models of excellence’.  These models are based on the thinking and behavioral skills of particularly successful people.

Richard Bandler had a background in mathematics and psychology; especially Gestalt therapy.  John Grinder was a professor of linguistics.

Moreover, Bandler and Grinder combined forces to analyse the work and success rate of Satir; who was influential in family therapy.  Next, they looked at the work of Perls.  Perls was  the founder of Gestalt; an experimental new psychotherapy that aims to enhance awareness, freedom and self expression.

Bandler and Grinder also examined the work of Milton H. Erickson; who was hugely influential in the field of Hypnosis.  Furthermore, Erickson was particularly famed for his unorthodox; as well as successful methods in Clinical Hypnosis.

What’s the differences between NLP Neuro Linguistic Programming and Hypnosis?

The first issue with trying to discuss the differences between NLP and hypnosis is that neither has a definition that is accepted by all.

Both topics are huge, diverse, constantly evolving and extremely subjective.

Trying to define them is a bit like trying to define religion.  Indeed, religion means different things to different people.  Furthermore, there are different branches and types of religion.  In addition religion is used in different ways; by different people. Similar to religious experiences are very subjective.  (Also, each school of thought tends to think that their own is the best!)

Both hypnosis and N.L.P. are about de-programming; or re-setting areas of the unconscious mind to break negative habits, feelings, thoughts and behaviors; and promote more beneficial and rewarding ones.

Just to confuse issues; it is possible to use methods and techniques inside a hypnotherapy session.

Some specialists argue that there is no difference between NLP and hypnosis and that the techniques are actually hypnosis; as the creators of NLP modelled a lot of hypnotherapy techniques.

Interestingly, NLP and hypnosis used together are more effective than each alone.

NLP, similar to hypnosis; is not organized or regulated in any way; so there is a vast; sometimes confusing amount of both practitioners, courses and information on the internet.

NLP does not have a central body that monitors and assesses standards. There is however a Professional Guild where you can find practitioners and training courses that do have an operational code of practice.

The qualification structure of NLP is generally accepted.

For best results with neuro linguistic programming; it is advisable to see a certified practitioner.  There are also many training courses and online resources.

Some NLP’ers hold that knowing NLP in theory does not yield the same benefits as learning how to practice it or having a session.

For example; if you read a lot of different techniques about riding a bike; you would be very knowledgeable in theory. But not necessarily able to actually ride a bike in practice.

Why can’t a bicycle stand up on it’s own? Because it’s too tired.

However, there are numerous online courses available. But do be careful in the choosing!

You have to do some research; assess where your interest in NLP lies and what you would like to get out of it.

Furthermore, if you would like help with personal issues it is probably best to find a certified practitioner; possibly a psychotherapist trained in hypnosis as well, to work with you.

If you are generally interested in the whole topic of NLP; and would like some personal advancement and improvements in your life and work; then maybe a course would be for you.

You can then choose how far you’d like to go.  You can stop at the foundation level course or continue and become a teacher yourself ; it’s totally up to you; the sky’s the limit.

NLP is a constantly evolving, diversifying and developing body of knowledge; as well as insights.

Nonetheless, an underlying concept of NLP is that all experience is subjective; thus the methods and tools used must be individually tailored and fluid.

If a person goes on a training course they should; if it’s demonstrated correctly; very quickly start to develop their own ‘individual’ style of NLP.

Likewise, similar to hypnosis; treatment and suggestions are more readily accepted; if they are tailored to each individual’s needs and world view.

More information on What exactly is NLP?; or a look at some basic Methods and Techniques.

For interesting links and references to other sites on NLP; please take a look at our Resources Page.