Example of a Weak Progress Note
Example 1 - Too Vague
Worked on goals today. Client did well and was cooperative.
Why this is weak:
- No service type
- No CSSP goal referenced
- No description of the service
- No measurable progress
Example 2 - Task-Based Only
I assisted client with cooking and cleaning.
Why this is weak:
- Lists tasks, not skill-building
- Doesn't connect to independence
- No client response or progress
Example 3 - Opinion-Based
Client seemed lazy today and did not want to participate.
Why this is weak:
- Subjective and judgemental
- Not DHS-appropriate language
- No attempt to describe barriers or supports
Example of a Strong Progress Note
Example 1 - Skill Building (In-Home Support)
Service Type: In-Home Supports
I supported the individual with meal preparation to address the CSSP goal of increasing independent cooking skills. The individual followed a visual recipe and independenly completed 3 of 5 steps with verbal prompting. The individual demonstrated increased confidence compared to previous sessions and required fewer prompts. Continued support is needed to build consistency.
Example 2 - Community Participation
Service Type: Community Living Skills
Staff supported the individual in practicing appropriate social interactions during grocery store visit to support the CSSP goal of increasing community independence. The indivual greeted store staff independently and followed a shopping list with minimal redirection. The individual required reminders to remain on task but showed improvement from prior visits.
Example 3 - Employment Support
I provided employment support to assist the individial with identifying job opportunities to support the CSSP goal of obtaining competitive employment. I supported the individual in completing two online job applications and practiced interview skills using sample questions. The individual independently indentified one job of interest and required verbal prompts to complete application sections. The individiual demonstrated increased confidence and engagement compared to previous sessions. Continued support is needed to strengthen job search and interview skills.
Example 3 - Education
Supported the individual with exploring education and training programs to support the CSSP goal of increasing vocational skills. The indiviual identified one program of interest and required verbal prompts to organize enrollment steps. Progress was noted in decision-making and self-advocacy.
Why this is a strong note
- Clearly indentifies service type
- Directly ties to a CSSP goal
- Describes what staff did
- Shows client partification
- Demonstrates progress tward independence
- Justifies ongoing service need
USE POSITIVE SUPPORT LANGUAGE
EXAMPLES
1. Encouraging Effort and Participation
2. Reinforcing Skills or Progress
3. Promoting Independence
4. Positive Behavioral Support
5. Motivational/Encouraging Words
Tips for Using Positive Support Language in Progress Notes
- Be specific: Instead of "did well". say what was done well
- Focus on effort and skill-building, not judgement.
- Ties to CSSP goals/area's of support: Always connect positive language to measurable progress.