ABSTRACT

My colleagues’ eyes usually glaze over when I enthusiastically mention using record keeping as a therapeutic tool. Most therapists see record keeping as a necessary evil-a boring burden that distracts them from the heart of their work. I have felt the same way. But as I developed as a therapist and learned to use every aspect of the therapeutic relationship, I saw that faithfully creating a chronicle of clients’ courageous and often arduous journey is a powerful tool that

hastens their healing. Seeing and discussing records validates their hard work and allows them to see themselves, their problems, goals, and gains. Reflecting on notes ratifies their role as collaborators in the therapeutic process. Involving clients in the chronicle of their work enhances self-determination, insight, responsibility for healing, and the integrity of the therapeutic relationship. Record keeping thus can be a dynamic aid to therapeutic intervention and an indispensable tool for growth. Though involving clients in observing and using the record-keeping process can be valuable, therapists must be aware of several issues. Therapists are responsible for creating the records and maintaining them in their offices. They must be judicious in deciding how, when, and to what extent to use records in therapy. Timing is crucial. Therapists must use professional discretion when responding to clients’ requests and be keenly attuned to clients’ mental and emotional status in order to make good decisions about whether or not to employ notes and records as a tool at a particular juncture. Finally, when choosing this or any other therapeutic tool, they must stay true to their own style.