Usually, but not always, that assumption is correct.
So first check the battery condition, the electrical connections and the earthing points.
Before we understood the importance of having sound electrical connections (the motor draws a
lot of current), garages (including franchised dealers) carried out a lot of unnecessary column replacements.
In a very small percentage of cases, the problem is caused by a failing torque sensor in the steering column. In these small number of cases, it may be necessary to either replace the torque sensor or fit a replacement or refurbished column motor assembly.
This is one company which can refurbish a failing column assembly, but remember they are in the business of selling this service. They don't fail as often as you might think from looking at their website.
If you have a weak torque sensor and an older car and the problem is very intermittent, you might just choose to live with it.