What is a mental health progress note?
A progress note is a brief record of a therapy session. It captures what was worked on, what you did, how the client responded and what happens next.
- Session focus: The main themes or goals addressed in the session.
- Interventions: Approaches or techniques you used and any tasks you set.
- Client response: How the client engaged and any change you observed or they reported.
- Plan: Agreed next steps, homework, referrals and the focus of the next session.
Keeping progress notes concise and consistent makes it easier to see change over time and to continue care smoothly.
Mental Health Progress Note
Mental Health Progress Note
Mental Health Progress Note Example
How to use this progress note template
The template is designed to be quick to complete. Follow these four steps.
Step 1: Download the template
Download the blank template and print it, or complete it on screen.
Step 2: Write the note soon after the session
Complete each section while the session is fresh. Keep entries factual, brief and respectful.
Step 3: Add session details
Record the client’s name, the date, the session length and your details. Sign and date the note.
Step 4: Store the note securely
Therapy records are highly sensitive. Keep them in a secure place with restricted access and follow your professional and legal obligations.
Who can use this progress note template?
Practitioners who keep session records, including:
- Counsellors and therapists
- Psychologists in private practice
- Social workers
- Group practices
- Trainee clinicians (with supervisor guidance)
- Online and telehealth practitioners
Your professional body may set rules for what notes should contain. Adapt the template to meet them.
Why is a progress note template useful for therapists?
A set structure helps in three ways:
- Consistency: every session is recorded in the same structure.
- Continuity: clear notes help you pick up exactly where you left off.
- Focus: prompts keep entries short and relevant.
Benefits of using a mental health progress note template
Visible progress
Notes across sessions show how themes and responses change.
Better continuity
You, or a covering colleague, can quickly review the previous session.
Clearer planning
Writing the plan down keeps follow-up sessions purposeful.
Time saved
Short structured notes are quicker than free-form text.
Supports supervision
Consistent notes are easier to discuss with a supervisor.