Must client progress notes be maintained in Maryland?

In Maryland, counselors are required to maintain progress notes for client treatment and progress. This requirement ensures a comprehensive record of the therapeutic process, which is vital not only for continuity of care but also for accountability and legal compliance. These notes serve as a detailed account of the sessions, including the interventions used, the goals set, and the client's responses to treatment.

Maintaining such records is important for several reasons: it allows counselors to track a client's progress over time, aids in treatment planning, and can be essential documentation in case of disputes or inquiries concerning the care provided. The requirement for progress notes aligns with ethical standards and professional regulations governing counseling practice, emphasizing that client care must be meticulously documented for the benefit of both practitioners and clients.