"Neuro" refers to the way all our senses are utilised in experiencing and interacting with our environment and each other.

"Linguistic" acknowledges that our language reveals both how we are using those senses, and the internal models of reality that we have constructed for ourselves.

"Programming" because our behaviours are the result of learned sequences of sensory reactions and thought patterns that can be modified to help us achieve our goals.

In contrast to therapies, NLP has concentrated on the patterns and behaviours of success and, now that these patterns (or programs) are understood, they can be taught.

NLP is not based on theory. It is based on the process of making models. There is a big difference. A model doesn't have to be "true" or "correct" or even perfectly formed. It only has to be useful when applied to what it's designed for. If it isn't, it can be discarded in any situation where it fails. NLP is really an epistemology (the study of the origin and structure of knowledge itself).

Everything in NLP is based on specific evidence procedures for effectiveness and is thoroughly tested. "Doing NLP" means working diligently to be sure we know what we know, and use it appropriately.

NLP, often referred to as the psychology of personal excellence and communication, is one of the most important tools in modern psychology, and is a wonderful instrument for engineering our own behaviour, and facilitating our communications with others.