NLP Neuro-Linguistic Programming Introduction NLP is short for Neuro-Linguistic Programming which is a positive and and useful aspect of modern psychology and one of a number of therapeutic tools used by Jo. NLP is a set of techniques, axioms and beliefs that adherents use primarily as an approach to personal development. It is based on the idea that mind, body and language interact to create an individual's perception of the world and that perceptions, and hence behaviours, can be changed by the application of a variety of techniques. An important technique is, "modeling" which involves the careful reproduction of the behaviours and beliefs of those who have achieved "excellence". The early focus of NLP was the study of the underlying patterns in the language and techniques of noted and successful therapists in hypnotherapy, gestalt therapy and family therapy. The patterns discovered were adapted for general communication and for effecting change. NLP as a Therapeutic Tool Despite its popularity, NLP continues to be controversial, particularly for use in therapy, and after three decades of existence, it remains scientifically unvalidated. Nevertheless, many practitioners like Jo and clients who have experienced NLP are convinced that it can be a moest helpful therapeutic technique for some people. NLP has also been criticized for lacking a defining and regulating body to impose standards and a professional ethical code. Jo applies her general ethical codes - based on those of various accredited bodies in other therapies - to her NLP work. Jo assesses the individual needs of all her clients and uses NLP as appropriate. The Principles of NLP NLP is of a set of techniques for rapid and effective behavioural modification, and an operational philosophy to guide its use. It is based on four main principles:-           1. Knowing what outcome you want to achieve.           2. Having a clear awareness of whether you are moving towards or away from your outcome.           3. Having enough flexibility of behaviour to vary it until you achieve your desired outcome.           4. Taking immediate action. There are certain presuppositions underlying NLP. These are things that are assumed to occur in effective communication. They include the supposition that it is useful to make a distinction between behaviour and self and that 'Possible in the world' or 'possible for me' is only a matter of how. It is presupposed that people already have all the resources they need to make the changes they want. Further information about NLP can be found on the Wikipedia encyclopedia website - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuro-linguistic_programming