SOAP Note Example: Grief After Losing a Pet

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 shared their grief following the loss of their dog, stating, "It feels like a part of me is gone." They described their pet as a constant companion and expressed feelings of guilt, wondering if they could have done more during the dog's final days.

Objective:
45-minute session. Client appeared reflective and somber. Discussed grief related to the loss of their pet and explored ways to honor the pet's memory. Therapist provided reassurance and normalized the client's feelings of guilt and grief.

Assessment:
Client is experiencing grief and guilt following the loss of their pet. They are processing these emotions and exploring ways to honor their pet’s memory. Client responded to reassurance and normalization of their feelings, though they appeared uncertain about starting memory-related projects.

Plan:
Client will reflect on their relationship with their pet and consider creating a keepsake or ritual in memory. Therapist and client will follow up in the next session to assess how they are managing their grief and discuss any progress on these reflections. Continuation of grief processing and emotional support is planned.

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.

In today’s 45-minute session, the client shared their grief following the loss of their dog. They said, "It feels like a part of me is gone," explaining how their pet had been a constant companion for years and how its absence has left a void. We discussed how grief can be felt deeply after losing a pet, as pets often become family members. Client expressed feelings of guilt, wondering if they could have done more for their dog during its final days. We talked about how normal it is to question what could have been done differently, but I reassured them that they made the best decisions they could at the time.

We also explored ways to honor their pet’s memory, such as creating a memory book or planting a tree in their yard. The client seemed uncertain about starting these projects but agreed that it might help them find some peace. We discussed the importance of allowing themselves to feel the grief rather than suppressing it, as this is part of the healing process. Client’s homework is to reflect on their relationship with their pet and decide if they want to create a keepsake or ritual in memory. We’ll follow up next week to see how they’re managing their grief.

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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.