Robert Dilts has been a developer, author, trainer, and consultant in the field of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)—a model of human behavior, learning, and communication—since its inception in 1975 by John Grinder and Richard Bandler. A long-time student and colleague of both Grinder and Bandler, Robert also had the opportunity to study personally with Milton H. Erickson, M.D., and Gregory Bateson.
Robert has played a pivotal role in expanding the applications of NLP in areas such as education, creativity, health, and leadership. His personal contributions to NLP include much of the foundational work on NLP techniques related to Strategies and Belief Systems, as well as the development of what is now known as ‘Systemic NLP.’ Some of the techniques and models he has developed include: Reimprinting, Integration of Conflicting Beliefs, Sleight of Mouth Patterns, The Spelling Strategy, The Allergy Technique, Neuro-Logical Levels, The Belief Change Cycle, Generative NLP Patterns, the Unified Field Theory for NLP, and many others.
Robert is also the co-founder, alongside Dr. Stephen Gilligan, of the International Association for Generative Change (IAGC). The IAGC aims to bring the principles of generative change to various professions across the globe, offering training, certification, and resources that support generative change in personal, professional, and organizational contexts.
In 1982, Robert co-founded the Dynamic Learning Center with the late Todd Epstein. Later, in 1991, he and Todd, together with Judith DeLozier and Teresa Epstein, established NLP University, which provides a comprehensive range of basic and advanced NLP training. Robert and Todd also founded Dynamic Learning Publications and The Academy of Behavioral Technology.
Additionally, Robert co-founded the Institute for Advanced Studies of Health (IASH) with Tim Hallbom and Suzi Smith. Established in 1994, IASH is a non-profit organization that supports research and networking related to the application of Systemic NLP methods in the health field. As part of its mission, IASH administers The NLP World Health Community and Health Certification Training.