How to choose the right CBT training – a checklist before you apply
CBT training programmes vary hugely in quality. Here's how to tell an accredited Step 1 apart from a short course – and what to check before you pay the first invoice.
Psyklinisk editorial team
Clinicians & CBT educators
The market is messy. Some "CBT training courses" are a two-weekend workshop, others are accredited Step 1 programmes with two terms of clinical training. Here is the checklist that separates what counts from what doesn't. Before you commit your time and money.
1. Is it accredited?
Accreditation is an important quality marker for Step 1 training. The Swedish Association for CBT (sfKBT) reviews the curriculum, staff competence, supervision, assessments and clinical training. Accreditation confirms relevant standards of foundation psychotherapy training and strengthens your preparation for Step 2. It does not guarantee eligibility or admission: the institution you apply to always decides, taking account of your base degree, professional experience and its other admission requirements. Ask about the programme’s current accreditation.
2. Does it give eligibility for Step 2?
If your goal is licensure, compare the programme’s content, scope and supervision with the current entry requirements of the psychotherapy programme you intend to apply to. Accreditation is a strong quality indicator but does not replace the receiving institution’s individual assessment. Ask for advice on your complete educational background and professional experience before planning the next step.
3. How much supervision is included?
Group supervision in sfKBT-accredited Step 1 training comprises 120 hours, with no more than four participants per group. Check that it is delivered by a licensed psychotherapist with supervisor training and whether it is included in the course fee. If billed separately, include the full cost when comparing programmes.
4. Is client work required – and do you have it?
During Step 1, you must complete at least two full treatments under a licensed psychotherapist with supervisor training. The treatments do not have to run in parallel. You need suitable client cases and a setting with appropriate responsibility, consent and confidentiality. If your job does not provide this, discuss a suitable placement with the training provider before starting.
5. What do the assessments look like?
Step 1 assesses you through written assignments, such as case formulation, treatment planning and self-reflection, and examinations in foundational theory. Supervised client work with a licensed psychotherapist with supervisor training forms part of the assessment of clinical skills. Ask for the assessment structure before applying so that the requirements are clear.
6. What's the format: distance, hybrid or in person?
Any format can be high quality if the programme is well structured. Check that there are scheduled live sessions (not just recorded lectures), that supervision happens regularly, and that the learning portal actually works. Good distance programmes hold themselves to the same standard of interaction as in-person ones.
7. What does it cost – all in?
As an approximate price range, accredited Step 1 programmes often cost SEK 120,000–160,000 excluding VAT. Where 25 per cent VAT applies, this is SEK 150,000–200,000 including VAT. Prices and inclusions vary, so always request a current quote. Supervision may be billed separately and add a substantial cost. An advertised course fee of SEK 120,000 can therefore become considerably higher once supervision, VAT, literature and any assessment fees are included. Check interest and fees for instalments; Psyklinisk offers interest-free instalments without additional fees.
8. Take references and read student reviews
Ask whether you can speak to a former student about supervision, assessments and staff availability. Also read reviews from real students. Our Reviews page contains former students’ experiences of Psyklinisk. Another student’s admission to Step 2 is not a guarantee of your own.
Read reviews from former Psyklinisk students
What to avoid
- "CBT diploma over 6 weekends." A short diploma course does not replace foundation psychotherapy training for Step 2.
- Programmes that promise Step 1 competence without supervision.
- Prices that seem too good to be true – supervision is expensive to arrange, and that shows in the price.
- Providers that can't show accreditation from sfKBT or an equivalent body.
- Advertising that promises "licensure after this course" – full licensure only comes after Step 2.
Frequently asked questions
› Are there state-run Step 1 programmes?
Yes, a few universities offer basic psychotherapy training as commissioned education or standalone courses. Their capacity is rarely larger than that of the private accredited providers, and admission is highly competitive.
› Can I get CSN student finance for Step 1?
CSN student finance requires the specific programme to be eligible for that support. Accreditation by sfKBT does not itself confer eligibility. Check with CSN before planning your funding.
› How many CBT training providers are there in Sweden?
About ten private providers offer accredited Step 1 programmes, plus a handful of universities. The range changes over time – always check current accreditation.
Psyklinisk's Step 1
Accredited by sfKBT since 2021. Distance format, clinical supervisors and interest-free instalments.
This article was compiled by Psyklinisk's editorial team for information and educational purposes and does not replace medical or psychological assessment, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a doctor, psychologist or other licensed healthcare professional about your own concerns.
