PIE Notes for Narrative Therapy: Template + Examples (2026)
Overview
The PIE Notes format provides an excellent structure for documenting Narrative Therapy because it streamlines documentation by consolidating related information efficiently. When working with clients presenting with Narrative Therapy, the key is to document how the specific symptoms, behavioral patterns, and treatment responses are understood through the lens of this particular format.
Each section of the PIE Notes note should serve a specific purpose when documenting Narrative Therapy. Rather than generic descriptions, each section should contain clinical information that directly relates to the diagnostic criteria, treatment indicators, and progress measures relevant to Narrative Therapy. This requires understanding both how the format works and what aspects of Narrative Therapy are most important to capture for insurance justification, treatment planning, and clinical decision-making.
Documentation quality matters significantly when treating Narrative Therapy. Insurance companies need to see clear evidence of medical necessity, meaningful progress on treatment goals, and appropriate use of evidence-based interventions. The PIE Notes structure, when properly applied to Narrative Therapy, communicates this clinical picture clearly and compliantly.
How to Document PIE Notes for Narrative Therapy
Problem
Define presenting problem(s), relevant background, current severity, and clinical context
When documenting the Problem section in narrative therapy, clearly describe the client's dominant problem-saturated story and how it influences their identity and experiences. Focus on externalizing the problem and understanding its impact on the client's life.
- Identify and describe the client's problem-saturated narrative as expressed during the session.
- Note how the client externalizes the problem, distinguishing it from their sense of self.
- Document the cultural, social, or relational contexts that shape the client's problem story.
- Highlight any dominant metaphors or language the client uses to describe the problem.
- Record the client's perceived effects of the problem on their relationships and daily functioning.
Intervention
Document therapeutic interventions, techniques, and clinical actions implemented during session
The Intervention section should detail the therapeutic techniques and narrative strategies used to deconstruct the problem story and co-construct alternative narratives. Document specific clinical observations and modalities applied during the session.
- Describe the use of externalizing conversations to separate the client from the problem.
- Note instances where unique outcomes or exceptions to the problem story were explored.
- Record any narrative techniques applied, such as double listening or re-authoring exercises.
- Document the therapist's use of questions aimed at uncovering values, skills, and strengths.
- Detail collaborative mapping of the problem's influence and the client's preferred storylines.
Evaluation
Assess effectiveness of interventions, progress on problem resolution, and plan adjustments based on outcome
In the Evaluation section, assess the progress made in reshaping the client's narrative and the emergence of alternative, empowering stories. Focus on changes in the client's perspective, identity, and relationship to the problem.
- Evaluate shifts in the client's narrative from problem-saturated to more resourceful storylines.
- Assess the client's engagement and openness to exploring alternative narratives.
- Note any reported changes in the client's sense of agency or identity.
- Document the client's reflections on the problem's reduced influence in their life.
- Record observable changes in the client's language or metaphors regarding their experiences.
SOAP Notes for Narrative Therapy
Alternative format for documenting narrative therapy
DAP Notes for Narrative Therapy
Alternative format for documenting narrative therapy
BIRP Notes for Narrative Therapy
Alternative format for documenting narrative therapy
Progress Notes for Narrative Therapy
Alternative format for documenting narrative therapy
SIRP Notes for Narrative Therapy
Alternative format for documenting narrative therapy
GIRP Notes for Narrative Therapy
Alternative format for documenting narrative therapy
Tips for PIE Notes for Narrative Therapy
Connect to Diagnostic Criteria
Always link your observations and interventions back to the specific diagnostic criteria for Narrative Therapy. If you're documenting generalized anxiety disorder, reference the specific DSM-5 criteria. If you're documenting major depressive disorder, show evidence of the required number of depressive symptoms. This demonstrates clear clinical reasoning and justifies continued treatment.
Use Quantifiable Measurements
Don't simply write "Narrative Therapy improving." Instead, use rating scales (0-10 severity scales, PHQ-9 scores, GAD-7 scores, etc.) to show concrete progress. Document specific behavioral changes: "Client reported anxiety decreased from 8/10 to 6/10 when discussing social situations," or "Depressive symptoms reduced by 3 points on PHQ-9."
Document Functional Impact
Show how Narrative Therapy affects the client's daily functioning. Insurance requires evidence of functional impairment to justify treatment. Document specific impacts: "Unable to attend work meetings due to anxiety," or "Staying in bed until 2 PM due to depressed mood." Then show how treatment addresses these functional limitations.
Track Intervention Specificity
Rather than vague interventions, be specific about what you did and why. For Narrative Therapy, document: "Taught progressive muscle relaxation for anxiety management," or "Assigned behavioral activation with goal to schedule one pleasant activity daily." Show how each intervention targets the specific symptoms of Narrative Therapy.
Demonstrate Treatment Progress
Connect each session to overall treatment goals for Narrative Therapy. Show how this session moved the client forward. Document barriers encountered and your response: "Client engaged in avoidance despite exposure assignment. Explored ambivalence about facing feared situations. Adjusted timeline."
Note Comorbidities
Clients with Narrative Therapy often have other conditions. Document any comorbid diagnoses and how they interact. For example: "Client's Narrative Therapy is complicated by concurrent depression, which reduces treatment response. Added behavioral activation to address depressive symptoms alongside anxiety-specific exposure work."
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Further Reading
- APA Documentation Guidelines — Provides detailed standards for clinical documentation relevant to mental health professionals using structured note formats like PIE Notes.
- SAMHSA — Offers resources and best practices for behavioral health documentation and treatment approaches, including narrative therapy.
- NASW (Social Workers) — Contains ethical guidelines and documentation standards for social workers applying therapeutic models such as narrative therapy.