Therapy Note Formats

DAP Notes

A streamlined three-part note structure focused on capturing session data, assessment, and planned next steps.

Note Format Overview

A high-level overview of the DAP note format.

The DAP note format provides a simple yet effective structure for documenting therapy sessions, often favored for its concise approach. Each letter in DAP represents a different section of the note.

Data covers objective information gathered during the session, including observations about the client’s behavior, mood, and any statements they may have made. This section sets the groundwork for understanding what took place during the session without interpretation.

Assessment is where the therapist interprets the data collected, offering insights into the client’s progress, challenges, or changes in their condition. This section allows for clinical judgment and highlights any issues that may need to be addressed.

Plan outlines the next steps, including therapeutic interventions, goals, and any tasks or exercises assigned to the client. This section helps both the therapist and client stay on track with the treatment plan, offering a clear path forward.

The DAP format’s simplicity makes it a popular choice for therapists looking for a quick yet comprehensive way to document their sessions without overwhelming details. Each section serves a unique purpose in creating a well-rounded view of the client’s journey.

DAP Note Examples

A few examples of the DAP format in action. But we have plenty more DAP note examples too.

DAP Note Template and Cheat Sheet

Quill can help you generate a DAP Note in just a minute or two, organizing the information in the proper sections based off of a simple session summary from you, the therapist! But if you'd prefer to work off of a cheat sheet or template, here you go!

Frequently Asked Questions

A few common questions about DAP notes (and their answers).

What does DAP notes stand for?

DAP notes stand for Data, Assessment, and Plan, which are the three key sections therapists use to organize their session documentation.

What is a DAP note format?

The DAP note format is a structured way for therapists to document sessions, with separate sections for Data, Assessment, and Plan. It offers a more concise way (when compared to the other note formats) to capture essential session details while keeping information organized and focused.

What does the "D" in DAP notes stand for?

The "D" in DAP notes stands for Data. This section includes objective information from the session, like observations of the client’s mood, behavior, and statements.

What does the "A" in DAP notes stand for?

The "A" in DAP notes stands for Assessment. Here, the therapist interprets the data and provides insights into the client’s progress, challenges, or any notable changes.

What does the "P" in DAP notes stand for?

The "P" in DAP notes stands for Plan. This section outlines the next steps in therapy, including interventions, goals, and assignments to keep treatment on track.

Do you have a sample DAP note?

Yes! Quill offers sample DAP notes to help you see how this format looks in practice. It’s a great starting point if you’re new to the DAP structure or if you're not sure how it compares to other note formats.

These examples were generated by Quill based on a brief session summary, just like the actual Quill process. If you're a therapist who wants to streamline your therapy note routine, maybe give it a try.

What other formats of therapy progress notes are there?

Alongside DAP, there are several popular therapy note formats, including SOAP (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan), BIRP (Behavior, Intervention, Response, Plan), PIRP (Presenting Problem, Intervention, Response, Plan), and Quill’s own SIMPLE note format.

How do I write DAP notes faster?

With Quill, you can speed up your DAP note-taking. Quill’s AI helps structure each note quickly, allowing you to capture key details without spending too much time on documentation.

Why do therapists use DAP notes?

Therapists use DAP notes for their clear, structured format, which makes it easy to document sessions effectively. It ensures key details are consistently covered, supports professional standards, and provides a reliable record of client progress and plans.

What is the main difference between DAP notes and SOAP notes?

The main difference is in structure. DAP notes use three sections: Data, Assessment, and Plan, for a simpler overview, while SOAP notes have four sections: Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan, which allow for more detail.

What is the main difference between DAP notes and BIRP notes?

DAP notes start with Data, covering general observations, while BIRP notes include a Behavior section to track specific client actions. BIRP is helpful for closely tracking behavior, whereas DAP keeps things more general.

What is the main difference between DAP notes and PIRP notes?

DAP notes begin with Data, focusing on general session observations, while PIRP notes start with a Presenting Problem section, highlighting the client’s main issue. PIRP is helpful for sessions that immediately address specific concerns.

What is the main difference between DAP notes and SIMPLE notes?

DAP notes are divided into three sections: Data, Assessment, and Plan, giving each type of information its own dedicated space. SIMPLE notes, unique to Quill, use a paragraph-based format without structured sections, offering a more fluid documentation style.

How can Quill help me create DAP notes?

Quill makes it easy to create DAP notes by using AI to structure each note based on a brief session summary. This approach saves you time on documentation, helping you capture the essentials without starting from scratch. And since Quill does not record your client session, it keeps the therapist-client relationship and confidentiality intact.

Can Quill’s AI save time on writing DAP notes?

Absolutely. Quill’s AI generates DAP notes quickly, using your session summary to fill out each section, so you can focus more on your clients and less on paperwork. And then you just copy-and-paste that note into your EHR. It's compatible with them all!


Send any other questions you might have to: hello@quilltherapynotes.com

Other Note Formats

These are all supported by Quill, letting you generate notes with AI!