Follow one group from attendance to review
In this fictional intensive outpatient program session, two people attend and one is absent. The group topic is shared. The record for each attendee reflects their own participation.
See the group therapy definition for how the shared session and individual record fit together.
One session, two attendees
The facilitator records the same session topic for both attendees. Each chart shows its own response.
What to check. Ask the facilitator to show where the shared topic ends and the individual observation begins.
One note needs clarification
The supervisor returns one note. The other attendee’s note keeps its own response and signature.
What to check. Ask the clinician to find the returned note, make the correction, and show its current review status.
An expected attendee was absent
The roster distinguishes the absence from the attended encounters.
What to check. Ask billing to distinguish the absence and returned note from encounters ready for its initial review.
The group therapy billing guide uses a larger roster to show how teams route absences, partial attendance, and open notes for review.
How NOW Counseling documents groups
NOW Counseling provides intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs. The team reported that moving to a shared group note with individual responses cut time spent on group notes by at least half. Read the NOW Counseling case study.
Use the IOP buyer guide to check how group documentation fits with program schedules, authorization, and billing review.
Frequently asked questions
How does Ease Health document a group therapy session?
Ease Health lets behavioral health teams record group attendance, document one shared session topic, and record, sign, and review a separate note for each attendee.
Can clinicians review group notes individually?
Yes. Ease Health supports a separate note for each attendee. Each note can be signed and reviewed individually, and a supervisor can return a note for clarification.
Does signing a group note determine whether the service is billable?
The signed note is part of the encounter record. Billing staff review the actual attendance, the service and setting, and any authorization and payer requirements before submitting a claim.