Progress Note Templates & Examples for Therapists

Progress notes are the backbone of clinical documentation. They record what happened in each session, track client progress toward treatment goals, and create the legal record of care. Well-written progress notes satisfy insurance requirements, support continuity of care, and protect clinicians in the event of an audit or legal inquiry.

What You'll Find Here

This section contains templates, filled-in examples, and step-by-step writing guides for every type of progress note used in mental health practice:

• By format — SOAP, DAP, BIRP, GIRP, and other structured note formats with side-by-side comparisons
• By session type — intake notes, termination notes, group therapy notes, couples therapy notes, crisis session documentation, telehealth notes, and collateral contact notes
• By diagnosis — progress note examples written specifically for depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, eating disorders, substance use, BPD, and grief

Each page includes a realistic filled-in example, a breakdown of what to include in each section, common documentation mistakes to avoid, and frequently asked questions.

Which Progress Note Format Should You Use?

The right format depends on your setting, training, and insurance requirements. SOAP notes are the most widely used across healthcare and are recognized by virtually all insurance companies. DAP notes are popular in community mental health and counseling settings because they focus on clinical data, assessment, and planning. BIRP notes are commonly required by agencies and community mental health centers, emphasizing behavior and intervention. If your employer or insurer doesn't mandate a specific format, choose the one that best supports your clinical thinking and documents the "golden thread" connecting assessment to treatment to progress.