Mental health providers play a vital role in supporting individuals, couples, and families facing various emotional and psychological challenges. As they focus on helping clients, it’s essential to ensure that their billing and reimbursement processes are accurate and efficient. One crucial aspect of mental health billing is understanding the Common Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes specific to marriage and family therapy billing. Let’s explore commonly used CPT codes in marriage and family therapy billing.
Commonly Used CPT Codes in Marriage and Family Therapy Billing
Navigating the world of mental health billing in marriage and family therapy involves understanding the details of CPT codes. These codes are the key to ensuring proper reimbursement for the valuable services you provide. Following are the most commonly used CPT codes specific to marriage and family therapy:
90837 – Psychotherapy, 60 minutes:
This code represents individual psychotherapy sessions lasting for 60 minutes. It is commonly used in marriage and family therapy when extended sessions are necessary to address complex issues. Document the therapeutic interventions and progress made during the extended session to support medical necessity.
90834 – Psychotherapy, 45 minutes:
Similar to 90837, this code denotes individual psychotherapy sessions but with a duration of 45 minutes. It is frequently used for shorter therapy sessions in marriage and family therapy. Clearly document the therapeutic work done during the session, including goals and outcomes.
90847 – Family psychotherapy (with the patient present):
This code is employed when a therapist conducts a session involving multiple family members with the patient present. It addresses family dynamics and relationships, making it indispensable in marriage and family therapy. Only use this code when the patient is physically present during the family therapy session. Document the involvement of each family member and the issues addressed.
90846 – Family psychotherapy (without the patient present):
In cases where the therapist works with family members without the patient’s physical presence, this code is utilized. It accounts for situations where family dynamics need to be addressed separately. Clearly document the reasons for the patient’s absence and the specific issues addressed with the family.
90832 – Psychotherapy, 30 minutes:
This code represents individual psychotherapy sessions lasting for 30 minutes. It is beneficial for shorter, more frequent sessions that focus on specific issues. Provide detailed documentation of the therapeutic interventions and progress made during the shorter session.
90853 – Group psychotherapy:
Group therapy sessions, which are common in marriage and family therapy, are billed using this code. It includes interactions with multiple clients in a therapeutic setting. Accurately document the number of participants in the group session. Describe the group dynamics, goals, and topics covered during each session.
90839 – Psychotherapy for crisis:
In situations of acute crisis requiring immediate intervention, this code is used. Marriage and family therapists may employ this code when a client faces an urgent emotional crisis. Use this code only for immediate crisis situations that require immediate intervention. Document the nature of the crisis, the client’s state, and the interventions provided.
90832-95 – Telehealth services:
With the increasing use of telehealth in mental health services, this code designates remote psychotherapy sessions. The -95 modifier indicates that the service was provided via telehealth. While using this CPT code, ensure that your telehealth sessions comply with the guidelines and regulations of the payer.
90834-52 – Reduced service time:
Sometimes, sessions may be shorter than the standard 45 minutes, such as 30-minute sessions. Using the -52 modifier, you can indicate a reduced service time while billing. Document the reason for the shortened session to support the billing.
For accurate use of CPT code, always stay updated on coding guidelines specific to marriage and family therapy. Regularly attend training sessions or seek guidance from experts to ensure accurate coding.
Benefits of Partnering with Medisys Data Solutions (MDS)
Navigating the complex world of marriage and family therapy billing, with its numerous CPT codes, can be a daunting task for mental health providers. However, partnering with a reputable medical billing company like Medisys Data Solutions (MDS) can alleviate the burden, ensuring accurate billing and reimbursement. Our expertise, compliance knowledge, and efficiency in handling mental health billing make us the ideal choice for therapists looking to optimize their billing processes. Let us take care of your billing needs so you can focus on what you do best – helping individuals, couples, and families on their journey to emotional and psychological well-being.
Contact us at 888-720-8884 / info@medisysdata.com to know more about our marriage and family therapy billing services.
The Common Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes mentioned in this article are a copyrighted product of the American Medical Association (AMA). These codes are provided here for informational purposes only and should be used in compliance with AMA’s copyright and usage guidelines.
