How You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes When Enrolling in a Cognitive Self Change Class
Thomas Wilson, Director Tom Wilson Counseling Center 

If you have been charged with an offense and have been to court, then enrolling in a Cognitive Self Change Class (sometimes called Thinking Errors Class) may be part of your obligations to the court. This is usually required by the court before the court releases you from supervision.

However, a simple mistake such as choosing the wrong class or choosing the wrong CSC program provider could get you into even more trouble with the court.  If you want to resolve your case quickly, avoid these common mistakes.

Mistake # 1: Enrolling in a class from a provider that does not have the proper credentials or is not accredited. 

Cognitive Self Change Classes are taught by professionals who are certified or licensed in Cognitive Self Change. If you are unsure, ask for a copy of their license or check their credentials at the court.

Mistake #2: Enrolling in the wrong class.  Be sure to enroll in the right class that is required by the court and that fits with your work schedule.

Normally these classes are called thinking errors or cognitive-self-change classes and are 8 to 32 hours in length.  Be sure to check the required number of hours to avoid paying more than is required by your court order. Some providers may not give you a specific number of hours or weeks, so be wary of programs that won’t give an estimated length of treatment. Licensed course providers should be happy to help you find the right class and works around your work schedule.

Mistake #3: Enrolling in an online class without getting approval from your court or agency.

An approved course provider will not encourage you to sign up unless you have gotten permission from the court or agency that requires the class.  Be sure you have permission from the court, agency or your attorney to take the class.  Be sure to tell them about your work schedule to avoid problems with the program’s attendance policy. It’s always a good idea to check in advance.

Mistake #4: Enrolling in the cheapest class. 

Just because the class is the cheapest, does not necessarily mean it will cost the least in the long run. Some providers charge extra for certificates or other paper work required by the court. Inquire about all the costs involved in getting proof of enrollment, progress reports to court or probation, additional “enrollment fees” and certificates of completion. Approved providers should disclose all costs in advance.

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