Training as a Neuro-Linguistic Psychotherapist involves a combination of formal training, clinical practice, supervision and personal development over a period of not less than 4 years. Not all qualified psychotherapists practice as therapists. For some the training is a way of deepening their understanding and confidence. In turn this can help them develop their professional practice to “the next level” as trainers, business and executive coaches and organisational coaches.
Where to start
Starting any career development journey requires forethought and planning. Especially so for an extended period of personal and professional development involving training, academic study, personal psychotherapy, reflection, and supervised practice.
Many people start training as a Neuro-Linguistic Psychotherapist by completing a certified Practitioner of NLP and a Master Practitioner of NLP training with a recognised NLP trainer. When you have completed a minimum total of 120 hours contact time with a certified NLP Trainer and are using NLP therapeutically under supervision as a coach, counsellor, therapist, etc. you can join NLPtCA as an Associate Member.
What is required
Your journey to become a Neuro-Linguistic Psychotherapist is at the postgraduate level. It will take a minimum of 4 years and normally not longer than 10 years. You will need to demonstrate you can meet the UKCP requirements for education and experience as a psychotherapist to be Accredited by NLPtCA. These include:
- A first degree or equivalent
- Certified NLP Practitioner and Master Practitioner (240 hours)
- Neuro-Linguistic Psychotherapy Theory and Clinical Practice Training (80 hours)
- A Critical Understanding of Psychotherapy Studies (80 hours) to include
- Human Development
- Psychopathology including Psychopharmacology
- Sexuality and Gender
- Ethics
- Research Methods
- Social Science
- Knowledge of Other Psychotherapeutic Approaches (40 hours)
- Other NLPt and related subjects (60 hours)
- A minimum of 450 supervised face-to-face client contact hours using NLPt
- Completed 250 hours developing self reflexivity – including a minimum 25 hours of personal therapy
Choose your own training pathway
NLPtCA is an accrediting organisation that accredits trained and experienced individuals working with adults to the UKCP national register. There is no set route for training, however everyone must be able to demonstrate meeting ALL the UKCP, Constructivist and Existential College, and NLPtCA requirements to be accredited by NLPtCA.
Neuro-Linguistic Psychotherapists share a philosophy of psychotherapy in common with other members of UKCP and especially our own college – the Constructivist and Existential College (CEC). There are a wide number of courses available from NLPtCA members, members of the Constructivist and Existential College, members of UKCP and University and private training providers that can help you meet the requirements to apply for accreditation as a NLPt Psychotherapist with NLPtCA.
NLPtCA advise talking with a NLPt Supervisor to review your aspirations, experience to date, and options for completing the required education and training.
You can join NLPtCA as a NLPt Psychotherapist in Training when you are enrolled in formal Neuro-Linguistic Psychotherapy training and aiming to become an Accredited NLPtCA Psychotherapist & registered with UKCP.
Becoming accredited after your training
When you have completed training as a Neuro-Linguistic Psychotherapist and have the required experience of practice with adults, supervision, and personal development you can apply to be accredited by NLPtCA. You will have been an NLPtCA member for at least one year.