There are lots of sites nowadays claiming to offer neurolinguistic programming, or NLP, over the internet. NLP is the idea that the way we communicate can affect the way we feel. It was created in the US in the 1970s, and has been catching the attention in the UK over the past decade or so. It works on the premise that the way we use language to communicate our thoughts and emotions is directly linked to the way we think, which in turn ‘programs’ our behaviour.
However, despite these websites offering NLP treatment virtually, most people still prefer to undergo therapy in person. The main benefits of taking NLP treatment face to face with a therapist are that you can explain yourself more coherently and you get a more tailored experience. Some NLP programmes online are run without any input from the patient, and simply explain in generic terms what the patient should do to reprogram their way of thinking. However, it’s not as simple as that.
Every patient will have different needs which need to be discussed with an expert to give you the support you need. Nobody will fit into the space of a prototypical patient, and giving one size fits all advice can be harmful if it doesn’t suit an individual. Instead, your needs should be discussed thoroughly with someone who understands the therapy inside out and knows how best to tailor it to what you need.
Furthermore, a local therapist can be valuable. If you’re based in Sussex, for example, you’ll want to find a therapist in Sussex. If you’re in Glasgow, you’ll want a therapist in Glasgow. While undergoing therapy online is useful in that it’s remote and can be taken anywhere that’s convenient for you, it does mean that you don’t get the personal contact you need to build a trusting relationship with your therapist.
Some online sessions may take place over videochat. While this can help to some extent, it’s difficult to get the same connection with your NLP therapist, and the healing process might take longer as you lose the intensity of the contact. Also, if any technical issues arise, this can eat into your session, and if you lose your internet connection it can mean missing a session entirely.
While online NLP therapy can be useful for the less mobile or people who travel often for work, it isn’t for everyone. If you want the best experience, find yourself a local specialist to guide you through your therapy.
Katy Heron is a Sussex based blogger with an interest in holistic and alternative therapies to help improve mind, body and spirit
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