What does the Plan section of SOAP notes describe?

The Plan section of SOAP notes is crucial as it outlines the intended provider treatment actions or interventions designed to address the client's needs and objectives. This part of the documentation specifies what steps will be taken to aid the client’s progress based on the assessment and goals established in the earlier sections of the SOAP note.

In creating a solid treatment plan, practitioners consider the client's current status and progress, determining the necessary interventions to guide them toward their therapeutic goals. This may include specific strategies, resources, or follow-up actions to be taken during subsequent sessions.

The other sections highlight different aspects of client care. For example, the client's progress and outcomes would typically be detailed in the "O" (Objective) or "A" (Assessment) sections, whereas a summary of assessment data would also fall under "A," summarizing the professional’s findings and interpretations of the data collected. The client's own therapy goals would be described in the "S" (Subjective) section, which reflects the client's perceptions or feelings about their condition and their desired outcomes.