NLP → NLP Lexicon

Unconscious / Unconscious Processes / Inner System (Unconscious)

Definition

In NLP, this refers to the Unconscious all mental, emotional, and physical processes, that occur outside of current consciousness. It is understood as a cooperative, benevolent system , which stores information, controls bodily functions, and organizes behavior. The Unconscious is often viewed metaphorically in NLP – as an inner system that works with "good intentions" and helps individuals adapt and learn. Many NLP techniques aim to activate the Unconscious or engage in dialogue with it to enable changes at a deeper level. A client wants to change a behavioral habit. In coaching, the Unconscious is asked to develop a new, more appropriate strategy that fulfills the same positive intention.

Example

• In a trance session, unconscious resources are activated to resolve fears or blockages.
• The concept of the Unconscious in NLP has been heavily influenced by the work of

Origin and Theoretical Background

Erickson viewed the Unconscious as Milton Erickson composure Gregory Bateson a source of wisdom, creativity, and healing , which can be activated throughhypnotic communication cooperative processes composure . Bateson saw the Unconscious as part of a larger, cybernetic system , which connects biological, psychological, and social levels. In contrast to the, which also attributes destructive or instinctual forces to the Unconscious, NLP understands the Unconscious as psychoanalysisbenevolent and resource-oriented . Even problematic behaviors are interpreted as expressions ofpositive intentions . The Conscious asks the Unconscious to develop new alternatives that fulfill the same positive intention more effectively.

Application Examples

• Reframing: Trance and Hypnosis:
• In trance, the Conscious is pushed into the background to give the Unconscious space for change. Working with Parts:
• The Unconscious is divided into "parts" that pursue different intentions – e.g., in the Old, burdensome memories are made conscious and linked in the Unconscious with new, positive meanings. Six-Step Reframing.
• Reprogramming: Resolution of blockages, processing of traumas, transformation of unconscious beliefs.

Areas of Application

• Therapy: Activation of unconscious resources for goal achievement and personal development.
• Coaching: Direct communication with the Unconscious to accelerate change processes.
• Hypnosis: Strengthening self-confidence and promoting unconscious competencies.
• Personal Development: Trance Techniques:

Methods and Exercises

1. Utilization of language patterns from the
   Milton Model , to enable access to unconscious processes.Contacting unconscious "parts", identifying their positive intention, and developing new, helpful behaviors.
2. Six-Step Reframing:
   Working with Timelines:
3. Exploring unconscious time patterns to reshape emotional connections in the past, present, and future.
   Inner System

Synonyms or Related Terms

• Subconscious
• Deep Processes
• In NLP, the Unconscious is

Distinction

not understood as a place of repressed conflicts or drives, but as a partner of consciousness Partner des Bewusstseins. It works with positive intention and can be addressed through targeted communication, hypnosis, or reframing techniques. The boundary between the conscious and the unconscious is fluid – both systems interact continuously.

Scientific or Practical Benefit

• Individually: Access to unconscious resources, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
• Practically: Rapid and sustainable behavior change through the use of deep, automated processes.
• Scientifically: Inspired by concepts of cybernetics and systemic psychology for the self-organization of systems.

Criticism or Limitations

• Subjectivity: The unconscious is a metaphorical concept and difficult to empirically substantiate.
• Limits of application: In cases of severe mental disorders, NLP techniques alone are not sufficient and require therapeutic support.

Literature and References

• Bandler, R., & Grinder, J. (1975). The Structure of Magic I. Science and Behavior Books, Palo Alto.
• Bateson, G. (1972). Steps to an Ecology of Mind. University of Chicago Press, Chicago.
• Erickson, M. (1976). Hypnotherapy. Irvington Publishers, New York.
• Gilligan, S. (1987). Therapeutic Trances: The Cooperation Principle in Ericksonian Hypnotherapy. Brunner/Mazel, New York.

Metaphor or Analogy

The unconscious is like an ocean:

The conscious only sees the waves on the surface, while the ocean holds countless currents, resources, and secrets in its depths. When one learns to work with these currents, one can steer their own 'ship' – the consciousness – safely through life.

See also