Frequently asked questions
How much does the training cost?
When considering the cost of training, you need to think about not only the college fees, but also the additional costs involve such as personal therapy and supervision. To ensure we are as transparent as we can be, we have included estimations of these on our training pages (hyperlink).
Why do you charge less than some other training institutes?
By intentionally keeping the school small, we can reduce the cost of overheads and pass this back to the students. At Somata we strongly believe in inclusivity and wish psychotherapy training to be available to anyone wishing to develop themselves or start a new career.
What is the SCoPEd framework?
The SCoPEd framework is a shared standards framework which has been developed and agreed by six of the major Professional Standards Authority (PSA) accrediting bodies including the UKCP.
It is a framework which attempts to help the public understand the difference in qualification when looking for a counsellor or psychotherapist. The framework offers three columns, ranging from the least experience and training needed to qualify, through to the most.
By gaining UKCP accreditation through our trainings at Somata, you automatically will be placed in column C, which is the highest recognised position.
Do I need a degree to train to become a psychotherapist?
No. Although having some academic background may be useful, it is not an essential requirement. Instead, we ask for either a degree or “equivalent lived experienced”. If you are unsure if you would be a suitable candidate for training, please contact us for a chat.
Do I need to commit to the full four years of training at the start?
Not at all. You may only wish to achieve the Foundation Certificate, which is useful for anyone in the helping profession, or an individual who wants to engage in significant personal growth. Equally, you may already be a qualified counsellor or psychotherapist and wish to add TA to your toolbox.
Although it is recommended that if you intend to become a fully qualified psychotherapist to complete the four years in succession so as not to lose momentum, it is not a requirement. This means that if you wish to train for any number of years, and then take a break, this is also Ok.
Why consider the CTA route?
The CTA is an internationally recognised qualification and is highly respected within the psychotherapy community. The examination process itself often cements theory and practice for students, allowing you to become the advanced therapist that the CTA title suggests.