Mental health progress Notes encompass information about counseling sessions, medication administration, evaluations of pertinent symptoms, treatment strategies, and noteworthy modifications in the patient's state over time.
Generate Custom Format Therapy Progress Note With S10.AI
15 Free Mental Health Progress Note Templates (with Examples)
Example 1: Custom Format Therapy Progress Note Example
Client Information:
Client Name: Sarah Jones (confidential)
Date of Birth: 1985-05-12
Referral Source: Self
Presenting Concerns:
Sarah, a 37-year-old marketing professional, presents for the first time reporting feeling overwhelmed and anxious for the past 6 months. She describes a constant feeling of worry and difficulty concentrating, making it hard to focus on work tasks. Sarah says she has trouble sleeping through the night, often waking up feeling tired and on edge. These symptoms have significantly impacted her ability to manage her workload and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
History of Present Illness:
Sarah describes the anxiety gradually increasing over the past 6 months, coinciding with a demanding new project at work. She feels pressure to perform well and constantly worries about meeting deadlines. She admits to neglecting self-care activities like exercise and social outings due to feeling overwhelmed. Sarah has tried relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises with limited success.
Past Medical History:
No significant past medical history reported.
Psychiatric History:
No prior history of mental health diagnoses or treatment.
Social History:
Sarah is married with no children. She lives with her husband in a suburban area. She describes her relationship with her husband as supportive but feels hesitant to burden him with her worries. Sarah has a close circle of friends but has been isolating herself due to feeling drained and anxious.
Family History:
No significant family history of mental health conditions reported.
Mental Status Examination:
Sarah appears well-groomed and dressed appropriately. Her mood is described as anxious and worried. She speaks rapidly with a pressured speech pattern. Thought processes appear logical with no evidence of delusions or hallucinations. Sarah denies suicidal ideation but admits to feeling hopeless at times.
Assessment (Preliminary):
Based on the information gathered, a preliminary diagnosis of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is considered (DSM-5 code: 300.02 [optional]). However, further assessment may be needed to rule out other potential diagnoses.
Treatment Plan:
A collaborative treatment plan was developed with Sarah, focusing on:
Goals of Therapy: Reduce anxiety symptoms, improve sleep quality, and enhance coping skills for managing work-related stress.
Interventions: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques will be used to identify and challenge negative thought patterns contributing to anxiety. Relaxation training strategies will be introduced to promote better sleep hygiene and manage stress levels.
Frequency of Sessions: Weekly sessions are recommended initially, with the possibility of adjusting the frequency as therapy progresses.
Homework Assignments: Sarah will be encouraged to practice relaxation techniques daily and monitor her sleep patterns.
Referral to Other Providers (optional): At this time, referral to a psychiatrist for medication management is not considered necessary. However, this will be re-evaluated if deemed necessary during the course of therapy.
Disposition:
Sarah agreed to schedule weekly therapy sessions and was provided with resources on CBT and relaxation techniques.The next session will focus on further exploring Sarah's negative thought patterns related to work stress and begin implementing relaxation training exercises.
Additional Notes:
Sarah seemed motivated to engage in therapy and expressed interest in learning coping mechanisms to manage her anxiety.
Example 2: SOAP Note Example
Crisis Intervention
Client: John Doe (confidential) Date: 2024-07-22
Subjective (S):
Presenting Concern (PC): John, a 25-year-old male, was brought to the emergency department by his friend after expressing suicidal ideation. John reported feeling hopeless and overwhelmed by financial difficulties and a recent breakup. He stated he had a plan to overdose on medication he found at home.
History of Present Illness (HPI): John has been struggling with depression for the past year but has not sought professional help. He recently lost his job due to company downsizing and ended a long-term relationship. These events exacerbated his feelings of hopelessness and isolation.
Mental Status Exam (MSE): John appeared tearful and disheveled. His mood was depressed, and his affect was blunted. Speech was slow and low-toned. He denied auditory or visual hallucinations but endorsed feelings of worthlessness and guilt. John confirmed current suicidal ideation with a specific plan and access to means.
Objective (O):
Vital Signs: Within normal limits.
Mental Status Exam (if not included in Subjective): Same as above.
Assessment (A):
Impression: Major Depressive Disorder, Single Episode, Severe with Suicidal Ideation (DSM-5 code: 296.24 [optional]).
Risk Assessment: High suicide risk due to specific plan and means available.
Plan (P):
Safety Measures: John's friend was instructed to stay with him until a safety plan could be established. All medications were removed from his possession.
Disposition: Admission to the inpatient psychiatric unit for further evaluation, crisis stabilization, and development of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Treatment Plan (to be further developed in inpatient setting): Medication evaluation by a psychiatrist,individual therapy sessions focusing on mood regulation and coping skills, and psychoeducation about depression.
Follow-up: Referral information for outpatient mental health services will be provided upon discharge.
Date: 2024-07-22
Client: Michael Brown (confidential)
Data (D):
Michael, a 42-year-old construction worker, presents for his initial substance abuse counseling session.
He reports struggling with daily alcohol use for the past 5 years, consuming approximately 6-8 beers per evening.
Michael expresses concerns about his drinking impacting his health, relationships, and work performance. He recently received a warning from his employer due to missed workdays and decreased productivity.
During the session, Michael appeared somewhat guarded but acknowledged the negative consequences of his alcohol use.
Assessment (A):
Michael meets criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder, Moderate (DSM-5 code: 303.02 [optional]).
His alcohol use is impacting various aspects of his life, and he shows some motivation to change.
Plan (P):
Education: Provide psychoeducation on the effects of alcohol on the body, mental health, and relationships.Discuss the stages of change model and explore Michael's readiness to address his drinking.
Goals: Collaboratively establish a goal for the next session, such as reducing alcohol intake by 2 drinks per evening.
Interventions: Introduce self-monitoring strategies like daily drink logs to track alcohol consumption. Discuss potential triggers for his drinking and explore alternative coping mechanisms.
Referral: Consider referral to a medical professional for a comprehensive health evaluation, depending on the severity of his alcohol dependence.
Next Steps: Schedule a follow-up session within one week to review progress and adjust the plan as needed.
Additional Notes:
Michael expressed some apprehension about potential social pressures related to reducing his alcohol intake. This will be explored further in future sessions to develop strategies for managing social situations without relying on alcohol.
Client: Sarah Johnson , Age: 16
Date: 2024-07-24
Behavior (B):
Sarah arrived for her individual therapy session looking stressed and fidgety. She reported feeling overwhelmed and anxious about an upcoming math test. She described experiencing physical symptoms like stomachaches and headaches whenever tests are approaching.
Intervention (I):
The therapist explored Sarah's study habits and identified areas for improvement. Collaborative strategies were developed,including creating a detailed study schedule, breaking down large study tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, and utilizing flashcards for key concepts. The therapist also introduced relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises to help manage test anxiety symptoms.
Response (R):
Sarah seemed receptive to the suggested study strategies and actively participated in brainstorming ways to create a personalized study schedule. She practiced deep breathing exercises and reported feeling a slight decrease in anxiety after practicing them a few times.
Plan (P):
Sarah agreed to implement the study schedule and practice relaxation techniques throughout the week leading up to her math test. The therapist will provide her with a handout summarizing the relaxation exercises for easy reference. The next session will focus on evaluating Sarah's experience using the new study strategies and further address any anxieties she might have about the test.
Client: John Doe Date: 04/15/2024 Therapist: Dr. Jane Smith
Problem:
Reports increased anxiety related to upcoming job interview.
Intervention:
Engaged in deep breathing exercises to manage immediate anxiety.
Cognitive restructuring techniques to challenge negative thought patterns about the interview.
Role-playing potential interview questions to build confidence.
Developed a coping plan for anxiety during the interview.
Response:
Client reported decreased anxiety levels following deep breathing exercises.
Client identified several negative thought patterns related to the interview and began to challenge their validity.
Client demonstrated improved confidence and fluency during role-playing exercises.
Client expressed a sense of preparedness and developed a concrete coping plan.
Plan:
Continue cognitive restructuring techniques to address underlying anxiety.
Practice relaxation techniques at home.
Schedule a follow-up session to review interview outcomes and address any post-interview anxiety.
Problem: Clearly states the primary issue addressed in the session.
Intervention: Outlines specific therapeutic techniques used.
Response: Describes the client's reactions and progress during the session.
Plan: Outlines the next steps in therapy.
Example 6: Case Management Note
Client: Maria Rodriguez Date: 04/15/2024 Case Manager: John Smith
Contact: Phone conversation with Maria Rodriguez.
Summary:
Maria reported increased difficulty managing her diabetes due to recent job loss. She expressed concerns about affording insulin and other necessary medications. Discussed available resources including:
Medicaid eligibility: Determined Maria may be eligible for Medicaid based on income. Provided application and assistance with completion.
Food assistance: Explained SNAP benefits and provided application materials.
Financial assistance: Offered information on local charities and government assistance programs.
Plan:
Follow up with Maria in one week to check on Medicaid application status.
Assist Maria with completing SNAP application.
Schedule appointment to discuss available financial assistance options in more detail.
Assessment:
Maria is experiencing significant financial strain due to job loss, impacting her ability to manage her diabetes. She is cooperative and motivated to access available resources. Requires ongoing support and monitoring.
Client information: Name, date of contact, and contact method.
Summary of contact: Brief overview of the conversation.
Services provided: Specific actions taken by the case manager.
Client progress or needs: Assessment of the client's situation.
Plan for future action: Outline of next steps.
Note: Case management notes should be clear, concise, and objective. They serve as a legal document and should be written in a professional manner.
Example 7: CBT Note Template
Client Name: Alex Turner Session Date: 04/15/2024 Therapist: Dr. Emily Carter
Mood: Reported feeling anxious and irritable.
Presenting Problems: Difficulty concentrating at work due to fear of failure.
Session Goals: Identify negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies.
Negative Thoughts: "I'm going to mess up the presentation and everyone will think I'm incompetent."
Cognitive Challenges: Examined evidence for and against this thought. Explored alternative explanations for potential mistakes.
Alternative Thoughts: "I've prepared thoroughly. Mistakes are normal and can be corrected."
Exposure Activities: Practiced public speaking in a safe environment.
Behavioral Experiments: Planned a low-stakes presentation to test anxiety levels.
Homework Assignments: Practice relaxation techniques daily and record negative thoughts and alternative responses.
Client Progress: Alex showed increased awareness of negative thought patterns. He demonstrated improved confidence during the practice presentation.
Therapist Observations: Alex appears motivated to overcome his fear of failure. He is actively engaging in cognitive restructuring techniques.
Treatment Plan Updates: Continue to focus on cognitive restructuring and exposure therapy. Introduce stress management techniques.
Next Session Goals: Discuss progress on homework assignments, explore additional exposure activities.
Homework Review: Alex will practice relaxation techniques daily and record negative thoughts.
Note: This is a hypothetical example and real-life CBT notes may contain additional details, such as specific cognitive techniques, behavioral activation plans, and progress monitoring measures.
Client Names: John and Sarah Doe Session Date: 04/15/2024 Therapist: Dr. Michael Carter
Presenting Problems: Frequent arguments about finances and lack of intimacy.
Session Goals: Improve communication about finances and reconnect emotionally.
Couple's Affect: Both partners appeared tense and defensive at the beginning of the session, gradually relaxing as the session progressed.
Communication Patterns: Both partners exhibited blaming and interrupting behaviors during discussions about finances.
Communication Skills: Taught active listening and "I" statements. Practiced effective communication techniques during role-playing exercises.
Conflict Resolution: Identified underlying emotional needs related to financial disagreements. Introduced compromise and negotiation strategies.
Individual Issues: Explored Sarah's feelings of insecurity about financial stability. Encouraged John to express his emotions more openly.
Couple Dynamics: Discussed the impact of financial stress on the overall relationship. Emphasized the importance of quality time together.
Couple's Progress: Both partners demonstrated increased awareness of their communication patterns and willingness to change. There was a noticeable improvement in their ability to listen to each other without interrupting.
Therapist Observations: The couple appears motivated to improve their relationship. However, deep-seated emotional issues related to finances may require additional sessions.
Treatment Plan Updates: Continue to focus on communication skills and conflict resolution. Introduce intimacy-building exercises.
Homework Assignments: Practice active listening and "I" statements at home. Schedule a date night focused on non-financial activities.
Next Session Goals: Review progress on homework assignments, explore intimacy-building techniques in more detail.
John expressed interest in individual therapy to address underlying anxiety about finances.
Note: This is a hypothetical example and real-life couples therapy notes may contain additional details, such as specific communication techniques, conflict resolution strategies, and progress monitoring measures.
Streamline Your PIE Notes: S10.AI Robot Scribe to the Rescue
Client: John Doe Date: April 15, 2024 Therapist: Dr. Jane Smith
Problem:
Client reported increased anxiety related to upcoming job interview.
Intervention:
Engaged in deep breathing exercises to manage immediate anxiety. Utilized cognitive restructuring to challenge negative thought patterns about the interview. Role-played potential interview questions to build confidence.Developed a coping plan for anxiety during the interview.
Evaluation:
Client reported decreased anxiety levels following deep breathing exercises. Demonstrated improved confidence and fluency during role-playing. Identified several negative thought patterns related to the interview and began to challenge their validity. Client expressed a sense of preparedness and developed a concrete coping plan.
Problem: Clearly states the primary issue addressed in the session.
Intervention: Outlines specific therapeutic techniques used.
Evaluation: Describes the client's response to the intervention.
Note: This is a simplified example. Actual PIE notes may include additional details, such as specific goals, treatment plans, and progress toward outcomes.
Client: Emily Smith Age: 6 Date: April 15, 2024 Therapist: Dr. Sarah Johnson
Mood: Initially appeared withdrawn, gradually became more engaged.
Play Themes: Primarily engaged in aggressive play with action figures, depicting conflict and rescue scenarios.
Verbalizations: Expressed feelings of anger and frustration through character voices.
Reflection: Reflected child's emotions and actions, validating feelings.
Limit Setting: Provided clear and consistent boundaries during aggressive play.
Directive Play: Introduced calming activities like building with blocks and drawing.
Emily appears to be processing anger and frustration related to a recent family conflict.
Aggressive play may be a coping mechanism for overwhelming emotions.
There is potential for increased self-regulation and emotional expression through continued therapy.
Encourage exploration of alternative coping mechanisms.
Expand on themes of problem-solving and conflict resolution through play.
Strengthen therapeutic relationship and build trust.
Parent reported increased irritability at home.
Collaborative treatment plan discussed with parent.
Note: This is a basic example. Play therapy notes often include detailed descriptions of play activities, nonverbal cues,and symbolic meaning. It's essential to document the child's emotional state, behavioral changes, and progress towards therapeutic goals.
Group: Anxiety Management Date: April 15, 2024 Therapist: Dr. Emily Carter
Group Members Present: Alex, Ben, Chris, Danielle, Emily
Group Focus:
Managing anxiety in social situations
Group Process:
The group began by sharing experiences of social anxiety. Alex described feeling overwhelmed at parties, while Danielle expressed difficulty initiating conversations. Members engaged in active listening and offered empathy.
The group explored cognitive-behavioral techniques for managing anxiety, including identifying negative thought patterns and challenging them. Chris shared a personal example of how cognitive restructuring helped him overcome fear of public speaking.A role-playing exercise was conducted to practice social skills. Members took turns initiating conversations and providing supportive feedback. Emily expressed increased confidence after the exercise.
Group Dynamics:
The group atmosphere was supportive and collaborative. Members shared personal experiences openly. Some members exhibited increased comfort with vulnerability as the session progressed.
Therapist Interventions:
Facilitated group discussion, modeled active listening, provided psychoeducation on anxiety management techniques, and offered individual support and encouragement.
Group Goals:
Continue to develop social skills, practice coping strategies, and build support within the group. Encourage members to apply learned skills in real-life situations.
Note: This is a basic example. Group therapy notes may include more specific details about individual members, such as presenting problems, treatment goals, and progress. It's also important to document any significant events or challenges that occurred during the session.
▶ HIPAA & Insurance Hassle-Free:
Combines compliance for a smoother workflow.
▶ Supports All Note Formats (SOAP, DAP, EMDR & More):
Emphasizes broad note type compatibility.
▶ Seamless Documentation for Every Therapy Setting:
Highlights catering to various therapy needs.
▶ Your Way, Your Notes: Record, Dictate, Type, or Upload:
Focuses on user preference and flexibility in note creation.
Client: Alex Turner, Age: 10
Date: 07/25/2024
Subjective:
Alex reports increased difficulty completing homework assignments. He describes feeling overwhelmed and easily distracted. His mother reports increased conflicts related to chores and daily routines.
Objective:
Alex appeared fidgety and restless during the session. He had difficulty maintaining focus on the conversation and frequently shifted his attention to external stimuli.
Assessment:
Alex continues to exhibit symptoms of inattention and impulsivity consistent with ADHD. Despite medication management, challenges persist in completing tasks and managing time effectively.
Plan:
Introduce time management strategies, such as breaking down tasks into smaller steps and using visual aids.
Teach self-monitoring techniques to help Alex identify personal triggers for inattention and develop coping strategies.
Collaborate with the school to implement accommodations in the classroom, such as extended time for assignments and a quiet workspace.
Schedule a follow-up appointment in two weeks to assess progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
Patient Name: Sarah Johnson Date of Birth: 05/12/1985 Admission Date: 07/15/2024
Discharge Date: 07/25/2024Attending Physician: Dr. Alex Turner
Reason for Admission:
Major Depressive Disorder with suicidal ideation.
Summary of Hospital Course:
Sarah presented with a two-week history of severe depressive symptoms, including anhedonia, insomnia, decreased appetite, and suicidal ideation. Upon admission, a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation was conducted, and a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder was confirmed.
During her hospitalization, Sarah participated in individual and group therapy sessions focusing on cognitive-behavioral techniques, mood management, and interpersonal skills. She also received medication management with [medication name] and demonstrated a positive response to treatment. Suicidal ideation resolved with the initiation of treatment.
Discharge Diagnosis:
Major Depressive Disorder, in partial remission.
Discharge Medications:
[Medication name] [dosage] PO daily
[Medication name] [dosage] PRN for insomnia
Discharge Instructions:
Continue with prescribed medications as directed.
Schedule a follow-up appointment with primary care provider and mental health professional within two weeks of discharge.
Continue with recommended psychotherapy sessions.
Monitor for any return of depressive symptoms or suicidal ideation.
Contact mental health professional or primary care provider immediately if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
Discharge Disposition:
Discharged home with follow-up appointments scheduled.
Note: This is a simplified example and does not include all potential elements of a discharge summary. A complete discharge summary should include additional information such as patient demographics, social history, physical exam findings, laboratory results, and any consultations with other specialists.
Patient: John Doe Date: 07/25/2024
Subjective (S):
Patient reports increased anxiety and difficulty concentrating despite being on medication. He states that he has been taking Sertraline 100mg daily for the past 6 months with minimal improvement. He expresses concerns about potential side effects and lack of motivation.
Objective (O):
Patient appears anxious and fidgety. Vital signs within normal limits. No evidence of significant side effects noted.
Assessment (A):
Patient exhibits continued symptoms of anxiety despite adequate trial of Sertraline. Potential need for medication optimization or augmentation.
Plan (P):
Increase Sertraline dosage to 150mg daily for 2 weeks.
Re-evaluate symptoms in 2 weeks.
Consider adding adjunctive medication (e.g., buspirone) if symptoms persist.
Explore the potential for psychotherapy to address underlying anxiety triggers and coping mechanisms.
Educate patient on the importance of medication adherence and potential side effects.
Note: This is a simplified example and does not include all potential elements of a medication management SOAP note. A complete note would include additional information such as patient demographics, medical history, and other relevant medications.
Client: John Doe
Date: 07/25/2024
Subjective (S):
Client presents with complaints of chronic neck and back pain, difficulty relaxing, and feelings of overwhelming anxiety.He describes a "jelly-like" sensation in his body and difficulty finding a comfortable position. John reports feeling tired,down, and frustrated due to his son's financial struggles. He has experienced age-related anxiety and the impact of a recent fall has exacerbated his physical discomfort. These issues have significantly impacted his daily life and functioning.
Objective (O):
Client appears tense and restless during the session. He exhibits guarded body language and limited eye contact.
Assessment (A):
Client presents with symptoms consistent with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), characterized by excessive worry,physical tension, and sleep disturbances. The physical symptoms, including neck and back pain, may be related to chronic muscle tension associated with anxiety. The client's age-related concerns and recent fall have contributed to a sense of vulnerability and increased anxiety.
Plan (P):
Continue exploring the relationship between anxiety and physical symptoms.
Introduce progressive muscle relaxation and mindfulness techniques to manage physical tension.
Encourage regular physical activity to improve mood and reduce muscle tension.
Explore potential referrals for physical therapy if needed.
Develop a coping strategy for dealing with financial concerns and the son's situation.
Address the client's age-related anxieties through cognitive-behavioral techniques to challenge negative thought patterns.
Schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor progress and adjust treatment plan as needed.
Note: This SOAP note provides a concise overview of the client's presenting problems, assessment, and treatment plan. It incorporates both psychological and physical symptoms, as well as considering the client's overall well-being.
What are the best free mental health progress note templates for therapists?
The best free mental health progress note templates for therapists often include SOAP (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan) and DAP (Data, Assessment, Plan) formats. These templates help streamline documentation, ensuring that all critical aspects of a session are captured efficiently. Utilizing these templates can enhance the quality of care by providing a structured way to track patient progress over time. Exploring various templates can help you find the one that best fits your practice style and patient needs.
How can I effectively use mental health progress note examples in my practice?
Effectively using mental health progress note examples involves understanding the structure and purpose of each section. By reviewing examples, you can gain insights into how to succinctly document patient interactions, treatment plans, and progress. This practice not only aids in maintaining comprehensive records but also supports continuity of care. Consider integrating these examples into your routine to improve documentation accuracy and efficiency.
Why are mental health progress notes important for clinical documentation?
Mental health progress notes are crucial for clinical documentation as they provide a detailed account of patient interactions, treatment plans, and progress over time. They serve as a legal record, support continuity of care, and facilitate communication among healthcare providers. By adopting structured progress note templates, clinicians can ensure that all necessary information is captured, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and practice efficiency. Exploring different templates can help you find the most effective way to document your sessions.
Hey, we're s10.ai. We're determined to make healthcare professionals more efficient. Take our Practice Efficiency Assessment to see how much time your practice could save. Our only question is, will it be your practice?
We help practices save hours every week with smart automation and medical reference tools.
+200 Specialists
Employees4 Countries
Operating across the US, UK, Canada and AustraliaWe work with leading healthcare organizations and global enterprises.