Peter you wrote "To answer NLPs critics does NLP have a coherent structure of knowledge? Is it worthwhile, new, and an advance? Or is it pseudoscientific mumbo-jumbo, hocus pocus? Can we demonstrate our unique contribution to human development and human knowledge?" Yes, I think NLP's critics can find a coherent structure of knowledge presented in "Whispering in the Wind" and then find quality NLP training that represents NLP as modellling technology that produces models as patterns of excellence. Many of NLPs critics seek statistics as so called proof. Both co-creators of NLP avoided statistics as it reduces the patterns of excellence to mere averages. People who seek statistics do not understand the value of discrete modelling structures and that presents a bind.  You wrote "Dr Lewis Walker has written a book on its use in medicine." Lewis Walker has presented some of his work in this forum and he seems to be doing a great job in applying NLP using new code and classic code principals in his practice. I wonder how many other doctors are applying NLP in their practices and getting enhanced results as a consequence and if one would be willing to be modelled. Such a modelling project, I am sure would be of an enormous value and be a great contribution on the BMJ site and the medical field on the whole. I think for NLP application to be taken into the medical field new modelling projects are necessary that relate to the field itself otherwise NLP is open to the critics as you state in your post. .  Please note I write the above from a perspective of ignorance regarding the world of medical practitioners. Regards Michael Carroll