Is neuro-linguistic programming a type of psychotherapy?

No, Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) is not a form of psychotherapy. Rather, it is a set of principles and techniques intended to help people make healthy changes to their thoughts or behaviour. NLP may be used in conjunction with therapy to address mental health issues, but it is not formally regulated. It has also been applied commercially by coaches and other non-therapist practitioners to help individuals achieve career-related goals across a wide range of industries.

What is neuro-linguistic programming used for?

In the commercial sector, neuro-linguistic programming may help build someone’s confidence and increase self-awareness. It may be useful in meeting work-oriented goals, such as boosting productivity or getting a promotion. In a therapeutic setting, NLP is one tool that a therapist may try when treating common mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), fears and phobias, substance misuse, and more.

What are some of the core principles of neuro-linguistic programming?

Neuro-linguistic programming is intended to help clients better understand their own perspective and become more sensitive to others’ points-of-view. NLP recognises that people form their own internal “maps” based on their sensory experiences. In NLP terms, everyone has a preferred representational system (PRS) that they use to navigate the world around them, which may be primarily visual, auditory, kinesthetic, olfactory, or gustatory. Understanding one’s own PRS—and being able to recognise others’—can facilitate communication and connection.

How can I recognise a good neuro-linguistic programming therapist?

Look for a licensed mental health professional with additional training in NLP techniques; this can include workshops and mentorship programs. Therapeutic fit is essential to feeling safe and comfortable with an NLP therapist. Potential clients should find out about the therapist’s experience helping other people with similar issues. In addition, they should ask the therapist whether they consider the client a good candidate for NLP and why or why not. This helps the client to set reasonable expectations for NLP-assisted therapy.