NLP Certification Structure

Although NLP is not regulated by law in the same way as some professions, there is a widely recognised certification structure within the field of NLP.

This structure is progressive. At some levels, you need to have completed an earlier level of certification before moving on to the next.

Before booking any NLP training, it is important to check that the trainer holds the correct certification themselves and is qualified to deliver the level of training they are offering.

Introduction to NLP

An introduction to NLP may be as short as an evening or may run over one or more days.

Introductory courses are a useful way to discover what NLP is, experience a trainer’s style and decide whether you would like to continue learning.

NLP Diploma or Foundation

Diploma or Foundation training is usually a short course, often lasting between two and four days, depending on the training provider.

A Foundation or Diploma course may introduce some of the basic methodologies of NLP, such as:

• managing emotional state
• building and maintaining rapport
• using language more effectively
• understanding basic NLP principles and tools
• exploring practical applications of NLP

You may receive a certificate at the end of the course. This usually shows that you have attended the training and demonstrated an understanding of the course content.

These courses do not qualify you to practise NLP professionally.

NLP Practitioner

NLP Practitioner training is generally the first substantial level of NLP certification.

There are different training formats available, so it is important to check what the course includes, how it is delivered and how competence is assessed.

One course, however long or short, will not automatically make someone a skilful practitioner. Becoming proficient with NLP requires practice, feedback and ongoing development over time.

Good Practitioner training should thoroughly cover the core skills and principles that make up NLP and should include live practice, interaction, feedback and assessment.

NLP Master Practitioner

NLP Master Practitioner training builds on Practitioner-level certification. You normally need to have completed NLP Practitioner training before progressing to Master Practitioner.

Master Practitioner training usually explores NLP in greater depth and builds upon Practitioner by teaching how to weave various techniques seamlessly to support your clients achieve the results they want.

Some Master Practitioner courses include modelling projects. These will focus on modelling real expertise and excellence, rather than simply describing ordinary performance.

Master Practitioner training can deepen both personal and professional application of NLP.

NLP Trainer

NLP Trainer training is for people who want to teach NLP to others.

It is widely accepted in the global field of NLP that someone delivering certified NLP Practitioner or Master Practitioner training should hold an NLP Trainer certification themselves.

To undertake NLP Trainer training, you need to have completed NLP Master Practitioner certification first.

If you want to become an NLP Trainer, check carefully that the person delivering your Trainers Training is appropriately certified to do so.

NLP Master Trainer

An NLP Master Trainer is someone certified to deliver NLP Trainers Training and issue NLP Trainer certification.

Only an NLP Master Trainer, or someone who has reached an equivalent recognised standard through an appropriate professional NLP body, should deliver NLP Trainers Training.

There are relatively few recognised NLP Master Trainers. ANLP has worked with other recognised NLP certification bodies in the UK to compile clear criteria for recognising NLP Master Trainer status.

Some certification bodies have additional criteria for Master Trainer status, and ANLP recognises those where they meet or exceed the agreed minimum standards.

Check the trainer is qualified to train you

At every level of NLP training, it is important to check that the trainer is bona fide.

This means checking that they hold the appropriate certification themselves and are qualified to deliver the level of training they are offering.

As a guide:

• Practitioner and Master Practitioner training should be delivered by an appropriately certified NLP Trainer.
• NLP Trainers Training should be delivered by an appropriately recognised NLP Master Trainer.
• Training should follow the recognised NLP certification structure.
• Certification should be clear, verifiable and suitable for your intended purpose.

A bona fide trainer will be willing to explain their qualifications, training lineage and authority to certify others.

In summary

NLP has a widely recognised certification structure, progressing from introductory learning through Practitioner, Master Practitioner, Trainer and Master Trainer levels.

The right level for you depends on what you want to do with NLP.

Before booking, check the course level, course content, trainer credentials, certification route and whether the training will support your future goals.

ANLP, the gold standard Independent Professional Body for NLP, provides guidance and professional standards to help you make an informed choice about NLP training.