EATA Guidelines to Start Your CTA Journey –  Pre-Contract Preparation Resource – by Exam Project Group (EPG)

The “EATA Guidelines to Start Your CTA Journey” is a comprehensive resource for individuals preparing to become Certified Transactional Analysts (CTA). ​ It aims to help trainees reflect on their readiness, align their motivations, and approach the process with clarity and integrity before formally committing. ​

The journey is divided into four stages:

1. Orientation & Exploration: Understanding the CTA structure, expectations, and community. ​
2. Testing the Fit: Experimenting with supervision, journaling, and real-life application to assess alignment. ​
3. Owning the Process: Taking responsibility for learning, engaging with supervisors, and integrating theory into practice. ​
4. Formal Commitment: Signing the CTA contract, selecting a supervisor, and formalizing training. ​

Key requirements include 300 hours of training, 150 hours of supervision (75 formal), 750 hours of professional practice, and personal therapy (mandatory for psychotherapy). ​ Eligible hours completed before signing the contract count if they meet EATA standards. ​

The guide encourages deep reflection on motivations, values, and readiness, emphasizing the non-linear nature of the journey. ​ It highlights the importance of flexibility, self-respect, and commitment to growth. ​ Ultimately, it invites trainees to approach the CTA path with intention, accountability, and a focus on becoming practitioners who embody presence, professionalism, and care. ​