NLP fast phobia cure (VK dissociation)

Domain VI · Brief, integrative, trauma, hypnosis & coaching · Richard Bandler · 1979

What it is

The fast phobia cure is a single-session imagery procedure from neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) for a specific phobia or for an upsetting memory that started one. The client watches a black-and-white "film" of the frightening event on an imagined cinema screen, usually from a projection booth so…

Format

• Format and dose:
• Individual, face to face, eyes closed for the imagery. The AHA write-up describes the whole procedure as taking under ten minutes, with a repeat in a later session if discomfort remains, reinforced by systematic desensitisation under hypnosis. No fixed session count is published in the sources…

Who practises it, and how they are trained or regulated

• Status and training: NLP is not a regulated profession. There is no single governing body. Practitioner certificates come from competing associations, including the Society of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (purenlp.com, founded 1978, Bandler's organisation; its trademark listing names Bandler), the Association for NLP (ANLP, UK), the International NLP Trainers Association (INLPTA), the International Trainers Academy…

Questions to explore with your client

• What drew you to it, and what are you hoping it will change?
• Is there physical contact? Was it explained beforehand, and do you feel free to say no or stop at any point?
• Does it involve any substance, plant preparation, remedy or supplement? Has your doctor or prescriber been told, especially about any medication you take?
• Does it involve intense or unusual breathing? Have you been told about the medical conditions for which that is not advised?
• Does it involve fasting, a special diet or 'detox'? Have you discussed this with your doctor?
• Who runs it, and what training or registration do they hold?
• What actually happens in a session or meeting, and how often?
• What does it cost, and is there pressure to commit to more?
• How do you feel afterwards, in the hours and days that follow?
• Does it fit with, or clash with, the work we do here?

What practitioners of it watch for

• A lingering flat, spaced-out or tearful state. Ground fully before going on (section 5).
• Over-confidence leading to unsafe exposure (e.g. handling venomous animals, driving before ready).
• Don't turn this into reframing of a traumatic event ("it was good for you"). Accept "nothing" as an answer.
• Spontaneous slipping into the scene ("I'm there"). Bring them back to the seat and make the screen smaller or further away.
• Boredom, laughter or a faded, distant memory are commonly reported signs of change. Rising distress means stop and return to dissociation.

When to involve someone else

• New or worsening physical symptoms, or advice to stop or change prescribed medication: involve the client's doctor or prescriber.
• Signs of coercion, isolation from family and friends, escalating costs or secrecy: discuss openly and consider safeguarding.
• A crisis or thoughts of suicide: follow your crisis protocol. In the US, call or text 988; in the UK and Ireland, Samaritans on 116 123.

Drawn automatically from the guide's own sections. Stay curious: neither endorse nor dismiss what the client values, and check anything that matters against the full guide and its sources. Not medical advice.