Coconote
AI notes
AI voice & video notes
Try for free
🎯
Implementing SMART Goals in Therapy
Feb 12, 2025
Understanding SMART Goals in Therapy
Introduction
Presenter:
Dr. Melissa McCaffrey, Founder of the Free Private Practice Paperwork Crash Course.
Topic:
Understanding and implementing SMART goals in therapeutic settings.
Objective:
Learn what SMART goals are, why they are important, and how to write them.
What is a SMART Goal?
Definition:
A specific method of writing goals that are observable, easy to understand, and trackable.
Acronym:
S
: Specific
M
: Measurable
A
: Attainable (or Achievable)
R
: Realistic
T
: Time-bound
Importance of SMART Goals
For
Medicare/Medicaid:
All goals must be SMART.
For
Private Insurance:
Recommended but not mandatory.
For
Private Pay Clients:
Optional but beneficial.
Benefits:
Makes goals clear and trackable for both therapist and client.
Writing a SMART Goal
1. Specific
Define the type of behavior or symptom.
Example Goal: "Client will reduce depressive symptoms."
Parentheses:
Describe specific symptoms for individual clients.
e.g., "depressed mood, insomnia, low concentration"
2. Measurable
Assign a number to track symptom frequency.
Break down client’s day to determine frequency.
Focus on times per day/week/month, not percentages.
Example: "From six times a day to two times a day."
3. Attainable and Realistic
Set goals that are achievable within a realistic time frame.
Example: Decrease depressive symptoms rather than eliminate entirely.
4. Time-bound
Define the time frame for achieving the goal.
Check in on goals periodically (e.g., every 3-6 months).
Practical Tips
Use clear language to explain the process to clients.
Acknowledge any awkwardness in quantifying symptoms.
Utilize the process for valuable clinical discussions.
Final Thoughts
Conclusion:
SMART goals are essential for structured and effective therapy sessions.
Resources:
For more examples and guidance, check out Dr. McCaffrey's paid course, "Documentation Made Easy."
Closing
Encourage therapists to use SMART goals for clearer, measurable progress.
Reminder: Regularly review and adjust goals as necessary to meet therapeutic objectives.
📄
Full transcript