SOAP Note Example: Dealing with Post-Pandemic Anxiety

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.

Subjective:
Client expressed difficulty adjusting to normal life post-pandemic, stating "I feel like I forgot how to be around people" and reported increased anxiety in social situations, including being around friends and family. Client noted a change from their previously social behavior to now feeling nervous about simple tasks like going to the grocery store, leading to avoidance of gatherings and a strain on relationships.

Objective:
45-minute office session. Client appeared anxious when discussing social interactions. Therapist provided psychoeducation on common post-isolation feelings and suggested gradual re-introduction to social settings. Breathing techniques and grounding exercises were reviewed as coping strategies for managing anxiety in social situations.

Assessment:
Client is experiencing social anxiety post-pandemic, impacting their ability to engage in previously enjoyed activities. They are showing willingness to work on re-engagement with social situations by agreeing to attempt the homework assigned.

Plan:
Client assigned homework to attend a small social event and practice grounding exercises for anxiety. A follow-up session is scheduled for next week to monitor progress and potentially adjust the approach based on the client's experience with the homework.

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 45-minute office session today, and the client was talking about how hard it’s been to adjust back to normal life since the pandemic. They said quote 'I feel like I forgot how to be around people' unquote and mentioned that even being around friends or family makes them feel anxious now. They said that before the pandemic, they were really social, but now even just going to the grocery store makes them nervous. They’ve been avoiding gatherings and other social events, and it’s starting to affect their relationships because they’re pulling away.

We talked about how it’s pretty common for people to feel this way after being isolated for so long, and that we can take small steps to ease them back into social situations without it feeling overwhelming. I suggested starting with something low-pressure, like meeting one or two friends for coffee in a quiet place, just to help them get used to being around people again. We also discussed how they could use some breathing techniques or grounding exercises if they start to feel anxious in social settings. Their homework is to try attending one small social event this week, even if it’s something casual like grabbing coffee with a friend, and to practice those grounding exercises if the anxiety pops up.

They seemed nervous about it but agreed to give it a try. We’ll meet again next week to check in on how it went and see if we need to adjust anything.

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More About SOAP 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 SOAP notes.