How do I train to be a UKCP psychotherapist or psychotherapeutic counsellor?
The usual requirement is the completion of a masters level course in psychotherapy or an accredited course in psychotherapeutic counselling which meets the requirements of the training standards of the relevant UKCP modality section.
UKCP's minimum training standards documents are available on this website or you can contact the organisational member you are considering for a copy of their training standards.
How long will it take to train?
Psychotherapy training courses leading to UKCP registration last four years or more, part-time. UKCP membership as a psychotherapeutic counsellor requires evidence of 450 hours of practice; theory and skills.
If you have already received training from an organisation which is not a member of UKCP, or have worked for some years as a counsellor or psychotherapist, your earlier experience may be taken into account. Ask the UKCP training organisation(s) you have chosen or approach a UKCP accrediting organisation and discuss accredited prior learning (APL) or accredited prior experiential learning (APEL) with them.
How much does it cost?
The cost of training is quite considerable. You should take the following into account:
- the training organisation's fees
- textbooks
- personal therapy
- supervision.
Costs vary between training organisations, please contact them for up-to-date information.
Which training courses are run in my area/when are they run?
There are training courses run in different parts of the country, and these include a wide range of options for the face-to-fact training such as:
- a series of intensive weekends over the year
- weekly evening courses
- weekly day courses
Many of UKCP's training organisations offer flexible options. It is worthwhile discussing the alternatives with the training organisation you have chosen, as they may have other potential students interested in a particular pattern of training, and be able to arrange a course to fit your needs.
Click here for details of UKCP organisational members providing training.
How do I know which training to choose?
As well as different modalities of psychotherapy, there are different types of psychotherapy within each modality, so it is worthwhile looking at each to see which you think best fits your view of the world and the way you want to work. For a brief description of the different modalities click here.
It is also important to consider how convenient the location is, whether the timing of the courses fit in with your lifestyle, how much the training will cost and whether there are flexible payment options.
Probably most important of all, however, is how well you relate to the people providing your training and their way of working. You are thinking of committing yourself to a long-term relationship, so take opportunities to talk to and meet people at the organisation. Many training organisations hold Open Days and some run Introductory Courses. | 
