Sofia University

Sofia University is a private, for-profit institution located in Palo Alto and Costa Mesa, California. Established in 1975 as the California Institute of Transpersonal Psychology, it was renamed Sofia University in 2012. The university is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Sofia University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a particular emphasis on transpersonal psychology, integrating spiritual and holistic approaches into traditional psychological studies.

Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (MACP) Program Overview

Sofia University’s Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (MACP) program is designed to prepare students for licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) and/or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC) in California. The program combines rigorous academic coursework with experiential learning, emphasizing a holistic approach to mental health. Students can choose between on-campus and low-residency (online) formats, allowing flexibility to accommodate various lifestyles and commitments.

Key Features

• Program Length: Minimum of 3 years
• Total Units: 90–97.5 units, depending on the chosen concentration
• Format: On-campus and low-residency (online) options available
• Start Dates: Multiple start dates throughout the year, including January, April, July, and September
• Transpersonal Focus: Integration of transpersonal psychology principles, including mindfulness, somatic practices, and creative expression
• Clinical Training: Minimum of four quarters of clinical experience before graduation
• Capstone Project: Completion of a Clinical Practicum Sequence, including supervised clinical hours and personal psychotherapy

Curriculum

The MACP program’s curriculum is structured to provide comprehensive training in counseling psychology, with a unique emphasis on transpersonal approaches. Key components include:

• Transpersonal Arc Courses (14 units): Courses focusing on mindfulness, somatic practices (e.g., Aikido), creative expression, and transpersonal theory.
• Clinical Core Courses (59.5–67 units): Foundational courses covering assessment, diagnosis, ethical and legal issues, and various therapeutic modalities.
• Capstone Clinical Practicum Sequence (16.5 units): Supervised clinical practicum, requiring a minimum of 225–280 direct counseling hours, depending on licensure goals.
• Personal Psychotherapy: Students must complete 40 hours of documented psychotherapy as clients during the program, including at least 20 hours prior to entering the Clinical Practicum Sequence.

Clinical Training

Clinical training is a vital component of the MACP program. Students are required to complete a minimum of four quarters of clinical experience, accumulating at least 225 supervised clinical hours for LMFT licensure and 280 hours for LPCC licensure. These hours are typically completed at approved local sites providing mental health services. Additionally, students must undergo 40 hours of personal psychotherapy to enhance self-awareness and professional development.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.0; applicants with a lower GPA may be considered with an additional letter of recommendation.
• Submit a statement of purpose outlining their interest in counseling psychology and alignment with Sofia University’s mission.
• Provide two letters of recommendation.
• Submit a current resume or CV.
• Participate in an interview with faculty members.

Tuition and Financial Aid

• Estimated Tuition: $58,500 for the entire program.
• Estimated Fees: $4,025, excluding costs associated with in-person intensives, such as travel, room, and board.

Sofia University offers financial aid options, including scholarships and payment plans. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the admissions office for detailed information on financial assistance.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the MACP program are prepared to pursue licensure as LMFTs and/or LPCCs in California. Career opportunities include:

• Private practice.
• Community mental health agencies.
• Hospitals and healthcare settings.
• Educational institutions.
• Nonprofit organizations.

The program’s emphasis on transpersonal psychology equips graduates to address clients’ mental, emotional, and spiritual needs, fostering holistic healing.

Why Choose Sofia University?

• Transpersonal Integration: Unique focus on integrating spiritual and holistic approaches into counseling psychology.
• Flexible Learning Formats: Options for both on-campus and low-residency (online) study.
• Comprehensive Clinical Training: Robust practicum experiences and personal psychotherapy requirements.
• Collaborative Cohort Model: Emphasis on community and shared learning experiences.
• Experienced Faculty: Instructors with expertise in both traditional and transpersonal psychological practices.

How to Apply

1. Complete the online application form.
2. Submit official transcripts, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and resume/CV.
3. Schedule and complete an admissions interview.