Feedback from IASH 2010
I have just returned from the 2010 IASH conference in San Francisco and have now had the chance to reflect on a whirlwind three days. It is, in my view, increasingly rare to find such a spirit of co operation in the world of NLP where commercial interests often eclipse all else. This is the second IASH conference I have attended and I am pleased to report that the event is excellent value, both financially and inspirationally. The event runs over five days with three days for the main conference, pre and post full day workshops, and up to six events being held simultaneously at any one time during the main conference itself, so plenty of relevance for communicators in all fields.
International Presenters
This year there were a number of great presentations including an update on the NLP Recognition and Research project by Frank Bourke and workshops by Richard Grey and Dr Kono from Japan amongst many other events. Other notable trainers presenting included Susie Smith, Judith Delozier, Shelle Rose Charvet, Kevin Creedon, Patricia Novick, Rich Liotta and Charles Faulkner. It's very clear to me that there is a genuine interest among those attending in developing new skills. I presented a full day on my own Provocative Change Works™ approach pre-conference as well as a three hour slot during the main conference and hosting a discussion on a video session conducted by Steve Andreas.
The NLP Research & Recognition Project
In these tougher economic times if NLP is to not only survive, but grow as a profession, it needs to move beyond a historical "let's fight over the territory mindset", which affects many professions in their earlier years, and work together for professional recognition and unity. The NLP Research and Recognition Project (www.nlprandr.org) is possibly one of the most substantive initiatives in years with contributors from both sides of the Atlantic. Frank Bourke, Richard Grey, Rich Liotta and others have done an amazing job in starting to get professional recognition for NLP. IASH, the NLP R and R project and The Advanced Mastery Trainings in Boulder are inspiring examples where progress and genuinely useful developments in the world of NLP and allied communication techniques and skills can be found. During IASH I managed to interview Frank and Rich about the NLP R and R project as well as conducting a hysterically funny surreal interview with Shelle Rose Charvet which will be released in the near future. It was a joy to be able to take part in such a fertile environment at IASH, and discuss all sorts of relevant aspects of communication with so many experts all together.
Continued Professional Development in Therapy
The process of continuing professional development (CPD), and review by one's peers, is an integral part of any profession which reflects and grows. I am delighted to be able to report that this year's IASH conference was relevant, hugely inspirational, providing excellent fodder for future reflection and inquiry, attended by people it is a pleasure to spend time with, whose opinion one values, and great fun! Fortunately for those of us based on this side of the Atlantic, many presenters will also be coming to the NLP conference in London in November 2010 and look forward to it very much!
