Notes kept separately due to containing the therapist's private reflections are known as which type of notes?

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Notes kept separately because they contain the therapist’s private reflections are called psychotherapy notes. These notes are distinct from the ordinary clinical record and are kept in a separate, highly protected space. They capture the therapist’s personal observations, impressions, and interpretations about the therapy process and the client’s inner experiences—reflective material about the session that isn’t intended for routine treatment planning or care coordination. Because of their sensitive nature, psychotherapy notes enjoy stronger privacy protections and are not routinely disclosed or included in the standard medical chart without explicit authorization or under very limited circumstances. By contrast, progress notes, administrative notes, and clinical summaries are part of the regular chart and used for treatment, logistics, or summary purposes.