Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)
…what on Earth is this and what does it have to do with my voice?
Have you ever experience a heightened emotion, a traumatic event or maybe generalised anxiety or stress which has left you with a change to the voice. Does your voice become tired, hoarse, uncomfortable for ‘no reason’? Do you have a mental block or feel a sense of self doubt or confidence when it comes to performing /presenting which has a negative impact on the voice?
Chances are, no amount of humming exercises, scales or strange vocal techniques will address the underlying issue, which is usually something a little more deep routed. However by using NLP techniques, we are able to understand, re-process, accept and manage these events, giving us control over our voices.
My Story…
A few years ago, I myself experienced vocal difficulties which upon Nasal Endoscopy (the camera down the throat thing) it revealed absolutely no visual or technique issues within the voice and on the vocal folds. I was referred to work with a specialist team of Speech and Language therapists, and as we explored the triggers to the voice changes, it became apparent that the main factor was underlying stress and personal beliefs I was holding on to.
I began working with an NLP Practitioner within The NHS Voice Clinic, and throughout the sessions, we explored the stresses and emotional factors I was experiencing, looking at how these were impacting my vocal ability through tension.
By using NLP we were able to draw on my memories and unpick/ understand how these had become imbedded in my mind and what had caused them to manifest through my voice.
After a handful of sessions, my ‘vocal problem’ (which turned out to be purely psychosomatic) was resolved and my management and understanding of these underlying issues has had such a positive impact on all aspects of my life.
I then became extremely aware of the amount of voice users who were experiencing vocal fatigue, loss in confidence in the voice, emotional restraint, stress disorders etc due to exactly the same psychosomatic condition I had experienced myself.
I spent several years studying the NLP techniques, combining these with my anatomical research to then complete my training in becoming a Certified Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Timeline Therapy.
NLP has proved an overwhelming success within my client base, and is something which is available as a stand alone session or within a Voice Session or Singing Session.
““Starting coaching with Kathy has changed everything for me in the best possible way. I have made so much progress with both technique and confidence which has now given me the courage to do things that I never thought were possible for me. I love that she uses a wide variation of techniques, tailoring each session to my personal requirements.
This includes NLP therapy which I’ve just began with her, which is helping me get past obstacles with my mental health which have been effecting both my voice and my life in general. After my first NLP session I actually felt like a huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders that I thought I was going to be stuck with forever. I can already feel the difference it’s making for me as a performer and I’m so excited to do more with her.
I can’t thank Kathy enough for her knowledge, patience & genuine care for both me & my voice””