A structured mind–body training you can refer to with confidence
The Lightning Process (LP) is a manualised neuroplasticity and mind–body training, delivered by accredited trainers, with an independently peer–reviewed evidence base built up since 2010. Here is what the research shows, who it suits, and how referral works.
Not positive thinking – a trained, structured skill
The Lightning Process combines elements of neurolinguistics, mind–body coaching, and applied neuroplasticity into a manualised protocol. It is not repackaged CBT: a qualitative comparison study found LP has a distinct focus on language, a specific neurophysiological rationale, and its own mode of delivery.
Delivered over 3 days
Patients attend a structured group or 1:1 training run by an accredited LP trainer – in person or online.
Skills–based training
Patients learn a specific set of tools they then apply themselves, day to day. Post course practitioner support available but seldom needed.
Sits alongside existing care
LP is additive. Patients continue any medication, therapy, or specialist input they are already receiving.
Where the evidence base is strongest
Referral decisions remain a clinical judgement call. This is a guide to where published outcomes are strongest – and where more caution is warranted.
Evidence base is strongest for
- CFS/ME (adult and paediatric)
- Long COVID
- Fibromyalgia and chronic pain
- Cancer–related fatigue in survivors
- MS–related fatigue
- Functional symptoms with no ongoing tissue damage
Use clinical judgement
- Patients not yet medically investigated or diagnosed
- Acute illness, active infection, or unstable conditions
- Severe or unstabilised mental illness
- Patients who are not ready or willing to actively participate
- As a replacement for – rather than alongside – existing treatment
18 independently peer–reviewed studies
A selection of the published research. Filter by condition, or view the full library on the Lightning Process research page.
Why clinicians can refer with confidence
Published in journals including BMJ, Explore, and Fatigue: Biomedicine, Health & Behaviour.
No adverse effects reported across all 18 published studies, including the NHS/Bristol RCT.
Designed to run alongside existing medical care – not as a replacement for it.
The questions we're asked most
Isn't this just positive thinking or willpower?
No. LP is a manualised protocol combining specific neurolinguistic and mind–body techniques, delivered by accredited trainers. A published qualitative comparison found it has a distinct rationale and delivery style from CBT – it isn't "think yourself better."
What's the strongest evidence you can point me to?
The SMILE trial – an NHS/University of Bristol randomised controlled trial published in the BMJ's Archives of Disease in Childhood – compared LP plus specialist medical care against specialist medical care alone in paediatric CFS/ME, with improvements sustained at 12 months.
What if my patient doesn't improve?
As with any intervention, response varies. No adverse effects have been reported across the published research, and LP is intended to sit alongside – not replace – a patient's existing care plan, so nothing is lost by trying it.
Is it safe for patients I'm already treating?
Yes. Patients continue any medication, therapy or specialist input they're already receiving. LP does not require anyone to stop existing treatment.
How is it delivered, and how long does it take?
A structured 3–day training run by an accredited trainer, in person or online, after which the patient self–administers the tools they've learned.
Is there a cost to my patient, and to me?
There is no cost to you as a referring clinician. Course fees and any current offers are confirmed directly with our team – contact us using the details below.
How referral works
Check suitability
Use the "who to refer" guidance above, or call our team to talk through a specific patient.
Share the guide
Download the clinician PDF above, or pass the patient our research page directly.
Patient's free consultation
Patients and an LP practitioner discuss suitability for LP. They book their own training place – no referral form or admin required from you.
Stay in the loop
We're happy to correspond with you directly about a shared patient, with their consent.
Questions about a specific patient?
Talk to our team – we're happy to help you decide whether the LP is the right fit before you refer.