NLP: what the research says

No good evidence yet that NLP helps with anxiety, low mood or other health needs. The few studies are small and low quality.

What a session is

An NLP practitioner uses conversation, questions and imagination exercises to help you change habits of thinking and reacting. Sessions often work towards a goal you set.

What the research says

• Worry and anxiety: Only a few small studies, with a high risk of bias. A Canadian review found no clinical evidence for generalised anxiety. No good evidence yet · British Journal of General Practice, 2012 · CADTH (Canada), 2014
• Low mood: A Canadian review found no clinical studies of NLP for depression. More research is needed. No good evidence yet · CADTH (Canada), 2014
• Fears and phobias: A few small studies on fears and phobias reported improvements, but all had a high risk of bias. No reliable evidence yet. No good evidence yet · British Journal of General Practice, 2012
• Stress, confidence and goals: Not studied in the sources we use. No good evidence yet

More on each need: Feel calmer · Lift your mood · Handle stress better

Is it safe?

Studies of NLP have not reported on safety. If worry or low mood affects your daily life, see a GP: talking therapies such as CBT are usually offered first. NHS, 2024

Sessions on Sissoo complement medical care and never replace it. Please don’t stop or change any treatment without talking to your doctor. If you feel very low or think about ending your life, call your local emergency number now.

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Checked 17 October 2026. Next check by April 2027. How we rate the evidence.