Free DAP Note Templates (Word)
LifeTemplates
Sample Dap Note
FAQ
What are DAP notes in therapy?
DAP notes are a documentation format that organizes therapy progress notes into three parts: Data, Assessment, and Plan. Counselors and clinicians use them to record sessions consistently, capturing observations, clinical impressions, and next steps so each session is easy to write and review later.
What goes in each section of a DAP note?
Data records objective and subjective observations, including what the client said and did. Assessment captures the clinician's interpretation, progress toward goals, and clinical impressions. Plan outlines next steps, interventions, homework, and the date of the next session. Keeping each section distinct makes the note clear and useful.
What is the difference between DAP notes and SOAP notes?
SOAP notes use four sections: Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan. DAP notes combine the subjective and objective into a single Data section, then add Assessment and Plan. DAP is often seen as simpler for behavioral health, while SOAP separates client statements from observable facts more explicitly.
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