How to Write a DAP Note (With Examples)

The DAP note, Data, Assessment, Plan, is one of the fastest defensible formats for psychotherapy. It captures everything a payer or auditor needs without forcing you to split reported from observed information. Here is how to write each section, with an example you can adapt.

1. Data

The Data section holds the facts of the session: what the client reported, what you observed, symptoms, life events, mental status and any measures. Write it so a colleague could understand what happened without having been there.

Example: "Client reported improved sleep (6–7 hours nightly, up from 3–4) since starting the wind-down routine. Described a conflict with a supervisor that triggered familiar feelings of worthlessness. Affect was congruent, tearful when discussing work. Denied SI/HI. PHQ-9 = 11, down from 16 two weeks ago."

2. Assessment

The Assessment section is your clinical interpretation: how the client is progressing toward treatment goals, your working diagnosis, and any change in risk. This is where your professional judgement belongs.

Example: "Client continues to show partial response to CBT for MDD, with measurable improvement in sleep and mood. Cognitive distortions around competence remain active and were reinforced by the workplace conflict. No acute safety concerns."

3. Plan

The Plan section states what happens next: interventions, homework, referrals, medication coordination and the next appointment.

Example: "Continue weekly CBT. Assigned a thought record targeting worthlessness beliefs tied to work. Will revisit sleep hygiene gains. Next session in one week; reassess PHQ-9 in two weeks."

Putting it together

A good DAP note is specific, ties back to the treatment plan, and shows medical necessity without padding. Avoid copying the same sentences week to week, auditors look for individualized, session-specific content.

Draft your DAP notes automatically

NotedTherapy can produce a complete DAP draft from your session in your own writing voice, ready for you to review and edit, so you keep clinical control while skipping the blank page. See related formats in our guide to SOAP vs DAP vs BIRP notes, or start a free trial.