How the pattern is constructed
Explore the distinction between describing a pattern and noticing how it is constructed in context.
Free live online taster
From NLP
to CDT
Why insight doesn’t always lead to change.
Saturday 21 November 2026 · 9:30 am GMT
Explore Constructed Development Theory with Dr Darren Stevens through a worked example, guided reflection and conversation about your practice.
For NLP practitioners, coaches, trainers and facilitators.
Familiarity with NLP is helpful; formal certification is not required.
The starting question
Understanding a pattern. Still repeating it.
A client can describe a familiar pattern clearly and still find themselves repeating it. What might a practitioner usefully explore next?
In this 90-minute introduction, we’ll consider CDT’s account of how people construct their experience in a particular moment: what they notice, how they interpret a situation and which responses feel available.
We’ll include your own interpretations as a practitioner, as well as those of the person you are working with.
What we’ll explore
A practical introduction to a different set of questions.
Awareness in the moment
Consider why understanding a pattern afterwards may differ from noticing it while it is happening.
Questions for your practice
Use a worked example to explore intention, awareness, choice and response.
The live session
An example.
Time to reflect.
Room for questions.
Bring something to make notes with and a general practitioner situation you would like to think about. Please avoid sharing identifiable client information.
- Begin with a familiar situation
Introduce the central question and explore an example through the CDT perspective.
- Reflect and discuss
Notice your own interpretations and consider the questions you might ask.
- Connect it to your practice
Bring questions and discuss what you would like to explore further.
- Look ahead to 2027
A brief introduction to the planned in-person workshops, with no obligation to book further training.
Your host
Dr Darren Stevens
Dr Darren Stevens developed Constructed Development Theory and is the author of Thinking Deliberately. His work examines how adults construct their experience and the role of awareness in making choices. Through Beyond NLP, he introduces practitioners to CDT and its applications in coaching and adult development.
More about Darren →Before you join
A few practical details.
Do I need an NLP qualification?
No. Familiarity with NLP is helpful, but you do not need formal certification.
Is this a live session?
Yes. It is a live online workshop with opportunities for questions and discussion.
How do I join?
Register for a free place. Joining details will be provided to registered attendees before the session.
What should I bring?
Bring something to make notes with and a general example you would like to think about. Please avoid sharing identifiable client information.
Does this commit me to further training?
No. The taster stands on its own. We will briefly introduce the planned in-person workshops for 2027, and you can decide whether you would like to explore them further.
Saturday 21 November · 9:30 am GMT
Join the conversation.
A free live introduction to NLP and Constructed Development Theory, with space to explore what it could mean for your practice.
Free registration is open.
Reserve your place through Eventbrite. Joining details will be provided to registered attendees before the session.
Reserve your free placeA question before you book? Email Darren.
Explore IAD certification
This free taster introduces the CDT approach underpinning the Institute for Adult Development’s NLP-to-CDT learning pathway. The taster stands on its own and does not award a Diploma or Practitioner certification.
IAD certification depends on the relevant assessment requirements and evidence reviewed by the Institute. Participation in this taster does not automatically award certification or establish eligibility for an award. Contact Darren to discuss how your learning could connect with the IAD pathway.
Why an IAD qualification? →Explore the Diploma and Practitioner pathway →