My Introduction to PCW with Its Creator Nick Kemp

In the journey of exploring effective methodologies for personal and professional growth, I first met Nick Kemp in February 2018. This conversation provided an eye-opening introduction to PCW and its unique approach to personal change.

Discovering NLP and Frank Farrelly's Influence

Nick Kemp began his journey into the realm of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) in the 1990s. His early encounters with NLP included working alongside Richard Bandler, one of NLP's co-founders. It was during one of these trainings that Nick first heard of Frank Farrelly and his provocative therapy. This chance mention led to an invitation from Andy Austin to attend a workshop with Frank in the UK in 2004. Despite the poor advertisement, Nick and a small group of attendees experienced Frank’s unique and rapid approach to client transformation.

From NLP to Provocative Change Works

Nick's experience with Frank Farrelly's demos was both confusing and enlightening. With his background in NLP, he struggled to comprehend Frank's methods but couldn't ignore the significant changes occurring in the clients. Intrigued, Nick decided to host Frank in England starting in 2005. Through these workshops, Nick began to appreciate the differences between provocative style work and classic NLP.

While traditional NLP and coaching start with identifying client goals and setting a structured plan, PCW takes a more direct and unconventional approach. It begins with identifying the problem and then encouraging the client to exaggerate the problematic behavior. This counterintuitive method, likened to the principles of Aikido, uses the client's resistance to provoke change and reframe their thinking at broadband speeds.

The Evolution of PCW

Nick's journey didn't stop at hosting Frank. He began to integrate elements from various disciplines, including NLP, hypnosis, and his extensive client work, into what would become PCW. This approach is highly conversational and improvisational, focusing on the present moment and the client's immediate responses. It diverges significantly from traditional therapeutic models by avoiding prescriptive techniques and instead utilizing a dynamic interplay of client and practitioner interactions.

Practical Applications and Global Reach

One of Nick's notable experiences was working with a group of Japanese doctors interested in the applications of PCW for anxiety, compulsions, addictions, and depression. This opportunity highlighted the global applicability and effectiveness of PCW. Nick's teaching approach simplifies complex psychological concepts, making them accessible and practical for real-world applications. His focus is on reducing theoretical jargon and addressing issues at a fundamental human level.

The Core of PCW: Understanding the Process

A critical aspect of PCW is understanding the process behind a client's problem. Nick emphasizes exploring how clients create and maintain their issues, using various stances and techniques to disrupt their usual patterns of thinking and behavior. This method encourages clients to think differently, leading to rapid and profound changes.

My introduction to PCW with Nick Kemp was a fascinating exploration of a unique approach to personal change. PCW’s effectiveness lies in its simplicity, conversational nature, and ability to provoke rapid change. Nick's dedication to refining this model and his passion for helping clients achieve meaningful transformations are truly inspiring. You can learn more about the PCW model by visiting www.provocativechangeworks.com

NICK KEMP TRAINING LIMITED