Downloaded the Therapy Notes PDF but not sure how to get the most out of it?

If you haven’t yet, get it now. FREE printable therapy notes template.

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Let’s walk through how to use the template efficiently—whether you’re a licensed therapist, a student intern, or a life coach who wants to keep sessions structured and focused.

📦 What’s Included in the Template

Your free PDF includes:

• A SOAP note layout (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan)
• Mood tracking scale (Before & After)
• Safeguarding concerns section
• Homework planning space
• Room for techniques used, reflections, and continuity planning

🧠 Step-by-Step Guide to Filling It Out

1. Start with the Basics

• Fill in client details, session number, and date.
• Quickly log start date/time (important for recordkeeping and timelines).

2. Main Points of Discussion

• Use bullet points or arrows (→) to jot the core topics brought up by the client.
• This helps keep notes organized and makes it easier to review past sessions at a glance.

3. Session Notes & Observations

• Write down key behaviors, emotional cues, client quotes, and your insights.
• Pro tip: write in short phrases or shorthand during the session; expand later if needed.

4. Mood Tracker (Before & After)

• Circle a number from 1 (low) to 10 (high).
• Track emotional progress over time—this is a great self-awareness tool for the client too.

5. Safeguarding Concerns

• Briefly document anything that might need follow-up, reporting, or referral.
• Keep it factual and concise.

6. Techniques or Resources Used

• Note CBT tools, grounding exercises, worksheets, or any techniques applied.
• Great for continuity and evaluating what works with each client.

7. Homework Planning (Patient/Therapist)

• Use this for journaling prompts, between-session goals, or reflection activities.
• Helps clients stay engaged and move forward between visits.

8. “Next Time I Want to Continue Talking About…”

• Let your client guide this part or use it to make sure no threads are lost.

🧾 Final Tip: Print & Store

• Print in batches and use a 3-ring binder
• Or: clip it to each client’s folder
• Want a pre-printed bound version? You can get the Jots & Tally Therapist Notebook with all of these sections formatted beautifully and ready to use

🛒 Get it here on Amazon

🛒 View other therapist notebooks on our website!

📥 Didn’t Grab the Free Template Yet?

🎁 Click here to download it
It’s clean, professional, and made for real-world sessions.