February 5
T. Schmenk
As the Process-Based Progress Note (PBPN) evolved, it became clear that while the full version provided a comprehensive way to track process-based therapeutic work, there was a need for a shorter, more efficient version that maintained the essential components. This led to the development of the PBPN - Short Form, designed for use after intake to capture key details without the extensive documentation required by the longer version.
Why Develop a Short Form?
Several factors contributed to the need for a condensed version of the PBPN: (also called PBACT note)
- Efficiency in Documentation: Clinicians needed a way to document key session details quickly without losing critical insights.
- Streamlining Supervision: A more concise note format allows supervisors to assess treatment direction and clinician decision-making more effectively.
- Maintaining ACT Consistency: While shorter, the form still needed to align with ACT principles and track psychological flexibility processes.
- Improving Therapist Adherence: A simplified version encourages more consistent use by reducing the time burden of detailed documentation.
- Enhancing Case Review & Progress Tracking: The shorter format ensures that session-to-session trends remain clear and measurable.
Key Features of the PBPN - Short Form
The PBPN - Short Form was designed to retain the core elements of the full version while making documentation more manageable and accessible. It includes:
- Primary Client Concern: A brief note on the main issue addressed in the session, allowing for a focus on process-based work.
- Psychological Flexibility Process Ratings: Quick numerical ratings (1-10) for Openness, Awareness, and Engagement, providing a snapshot of the client's current psychological flexibility.
- Behavioral Indicators: A space to note specific observable behaviors or shifts in client engagement and insight.
- Values & Workability Check: A brief assessment of whether the client’s actions in-session align with their stated values and whether interventions are functionally working.
- Planned Actions: Clear next steps or homework assignments to maintain continuity across sessions.
Grounded in Functional Contextualism
Even in its shortened form, the PBPN remains grounded in Functional Contextualism (FC)—the philosophical foundation of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This means the note is structured to:
- Track behavior patterns over time, rather than just listing symptoms or session content.
- Maintain a workability perspective, evaluating whether the client’s behaviors move them toward their values.
- Ensure that interventions are context-sensitive, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model.
Ongoing Refinement & Therapist Feedback
As with the original PBPN, the Short Form is being continuously tested and revised. It is currently in its early stages of use, with feedback being gathered from clinicians worldwide to ensure that it remains ACT-congruent, efficient, and effective.
To further refine the tool, I welcome feedback from those who integrate it into their practice. Any insights into its usability, effectiveness, and potential areas of improvement will help ensure that it remains a valuable tool for process-based documentation.
If you're interested in trying out the PBPN - Short Form, stay tuned for future updates, and feel free to share your experiences and suggestions!
ORIGINAL ARTICLE FOUND HERE: https://contextualscience.org/node/49924
Contributing members: Todd Schmenk, Alex Herlich, Eliza Stutton, Guliana Signorelli
www.riact.org