DAP Note Example

Anger and Frustration in Relationships

Client is struggling with managing anger in their romantic relationship.

Generated DAP Note:

Quill generated this note with AI from the summary that was provided. The therapist can then copy-and-paste the note into their current EHR platform.

Data:
60-minute session. Client discussed ongoing frustrations with their partner. Stated, "I get so angry over small things, and it’s like I can’t control it." Anger often escalates quickly, triggered by feeling unheard or dismissed. Client expressed frustration about difficulty communicating feelings without resorting to anger. Explored triggers and discussed healthier emotional expression and non-defensive communication. Therapist suggested timeout technique and reflective listening. Client appeared relieved to have a strategy but expressed concern about partner's reaction.

Assessment:
Client is making progress in identifying triggers for their anger and is open to trying new strategies to manage it. Their concerns about their partner's reaction indicate some hesitation, but they are motivated to improve communication and emotional regulation. Strategies discussed align with treatment goals of managing anger and improving relationship dynamics.

Plan:
Client agreed to try the timeout technique when feeling triggered and to practice reflective listening with their partner. Follow-up session scheduled in one week to evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies. Treatment will continue to focus on anger management and improving communication skills.

Client Session Summary:

Here's the summary of this client session. Remember, Quill does not record the client session. A therapist would provide a summary (like the one below) after the session is over.

We had a 60-minute session today, and the client discussed ongoing frustrations with their partner. They said, "I get so angry over small things, and it’s like I can’t control it," explaining how quickly their anger escalates in certain situations. We explored the underlying triggers of their anger, which often stemmed from feeling unheard or dismissed by their partner. Client expressed frustration over their inability to communicate their feelings effectively without resorting to anger. We discussed the importance of finding healthier ways to express emotions and how to approach their partner with open, non-defensive communication.

I suggested they try a timeout technique when they feel anger rising—taking a short break to cool down before continuing the conversation. We also discussed the idea of practicing reflective listening with their partner to ensure both sides feel understood. Client seemed a bit relieved to have a strategy but also concerned about how their partner might react. They agreed to try the timeout approach when they feel triggered and to check in on how they’re doing next session. We’ll follow up in a week to see if this strategy is helping them manage their anger more effectively.

Other Note Formats:

Looking for a different note format? Quill can generate AI therapy notes for those too!

More About DAP Notes:

From even more examples, to an overview of the format in general, to templates, to a cheat sheet, here's everything you need to know about DAP notes.

Quill can write your DAP notes!

Quill makes creating HIPAA-compliant therapy notes fast and easy. Input any session summary, and Quill will generate a professional note that supports multiple formats for just $20/month with no limits.

Try generating DAP notes with Quill.

Try it for free. No credit card required.