Therapy Without Borders: How NLP Therapists Are Embracing the Digital Nomad Life

Almost three years ago, a seismic shift in global dynamics led to the rapid adoption of a "hybrid" model, transforming the way therapy is delivered.

Nowhere is this change more apparent than in the NLP therapy and guided imagination sectors. To gain a closer understanding of this digital therapeutic revolution, we've interviewed five therapists who have successfully transitioned their practice to a remote model amidst relocation. Their journey attests to the transformative power of digital therapy, paving the way for their professional growth and allowing them to pursue their dreams.

Avital Zohar-Ochayon has spent the last five years in Dallas, Texas, after relocating for her husband's job. This change led her to re-evaluate her professional path and reignite her passion for therapy.

Why did you choose to study NLP and guided imagination of all things?
“I was looking for studies in the therapeutic field, which are compatible with today’s world. People are searching for fast and effective treatments these days. When I saw there was an option to study NLP online, I snatched the opportunity and signed up for the Practitioner Course. I fell in love with the contexts, with NLP, with guided imagination and mostly what it brought out of me. I have become a different person, full of patience and connected to my emotions”.

The experience of studying online has become more common in recent years, but there are still some who flinch from it, especially in the therapeutic fields. What was your impression of studying online?

“This period has shown that there is another way. Our class was composed of many women from different places in the world. Even though the studies took place online, I’ve always felt I am physically in class. The exercises were very efficient and the fundamental instructions clear. The availability of the lecturers and assistants was beyond expectations, despite the time differences between the varied countries. I was so pleased I continued to study the Master Practitioner Course and an internship with child and youth therapy as well.

It was evident that a lot of thought was put into providing accessibility to study online. Apart from the studying aspect, relationships and good friendships were created that last to this day. I allow myself to say that no one missed the frontal meeting. Another advantage of digital studies is the option to re-watch the recorded lessons, which can really add value and clarify the teachings.

On the practical aspect, I did most of my internship online as well and the results were wonderful. It works and it works well.”

Liat Vaxler has lived in Bucharest, Romania, for seven years. She used the lockdown as an opportunity to focus on her personal growth and change her career path. Now, she is setting up an online clinic to help women undergoing relocation change their realities and build their independence.

What drew you to NLP? And what has kept you in the field up to this day?
“I knew that I wanted an occupation that will bring me joy every day. I made a list of criteria for my dream job, and so the direction began to form towards NLP. I enrolled for a basic digital course, and it gave me a taste for more. I decided to move to a collage that enables an advanced study course with a significant certification. It was a most successful decision.

Beyond the professionalism and high level of study materials, there was a meaningful emphasis on a personal level. It gave a feeling of a warm and loving family. I’ve studied a lot and hold many academic titles, but until I found NLP I never knew how much passion and motivation are in me.

How does the digital realm interact with your personal professional vision?
“These days I’m opening an online clinic. The clinic is intended mainly to treat Israeli women like me from all around the globe. With the NLP tools women, during relocation, can change the reality of their lives and build their own independence.”

Meanwhile, Osnat Levi, a Boston resident for 23 years, decided to study NLP and guided imagery online at Retter college. The comprehensive course structure and meaningful training significantly enriched her personal and professional life.

Why did you choose to study NLP and guided imagery online in the Israeli Collage, and not in the USA?
“I first heard of NLP from a relative in Israel and got curious. In the beginning I looked for a local course in the area where I live, in the US. Very quickly I realized that there are substantial differences between the local courses and the courses in Israel and preferred to choose a long and substantial course. I was not mistaken; the characteristic of the course allows a good implementation of the material. In addition, you gain experience by practicing during internship, which provides a very meaningful training”.

How were you personally and professionally contributed by the studies?
“The NLP and guided imagery studies have given me so much. First, I became a better real estate agent. Second, I have personally matured, I’ve become calmer and more tolerant. I look at everything as an opportunity and set up personal and challenging new goals daily. Third, it has opened a new occupational horizon for me”.

What is your target audience as a therapist today? And what is the advantage of online therapy to you?
“Despite my living many years in the United States and that I speak the language, it is clear to me that my target audience is Israeli. I have a dream to one day become a digital nomad, help people online and travel the world. This way I could relocate with a steady job”.

Rinat Sneg, a former organizational psychologist, moved to Vancouver, Canada, in 2003. She discovered NLP as a means to add flexibility and mobility to her career. Rinat vouches for the efficacy and speed of NLP and guided imagery treatments, stating that it empowers her patients.

What led you to the NLP field?
“I chose to re-evaluate. Both my daughters have just moved out and I wanted the option to visit them more. I realized I needed an occupational change that will allow me mobility and flexibility. At first I studied coaching but felt something was missing from the toolbox. Hence, I registered for online NLP and guided imagery studies.

What is your experience from studying and treatments online?
“It was a very special experience. The courses were profound, and alongside that I was very impressed by the ability to treat online. Using “Zoom” was not new to me. In our financial business we held “Zoom” meetings for years. We found it to be very efficient and time saving. The digital meeting provides clearer borders and allows further efficiency. Online meetings give less reasons to be late for or cancel”.

As one who has training and vast knowledge in psychology, what are the advantages your find in the NLP and guided imagery methods?
“From my acquaintance with the world of psychology, I was very impressed by the fast results you can create using the NLP and guided imagery methods. The world today prefers fast results. The combination of psychology, coaching and NLP has given me a winning ticket. These days I find myself mostly using the NLP tools at my clinic. The processes I’ve learnt in NLP are very detailed and give self-confidence and ease to the therapist, and a constructed framework that is suitable to work with every patient.

For illustration purposes I will tell you of a patient, a psychotherapist herself, that has undergone different types of treatment for 14 years, attempting to solve a personal difficulty. After three NLP sessions she told me “I don’t understand what and how, but my life has really changed”.

These stories affirm the transformative power and flexibility of NLP therapy and guided imagery methods. With digital therapy becoming the norm, professionals can harness its advantages to build global practices, bring about fast and impactful changes, and find their calling.

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