Free reference for therapists
Therapy CPT codes
The codes private-practice therapists bill most, in plain language: when each one applies, how time decides the code, what to document, and which modifiers and place of service codes payers expect.
Individual psychotherapy by session length
| Code | Described as | Bill when the session ran |
|---|---|---|
| 90832 | 30 minutes | 16 to 37 minutes |
| 90834 | 45 minutes | 38 to 52 minutes |
| 90837 | 60 minutes | 53 minutes or more |
Count the actual psychotherapy time, not the appointment slot. Not sure between the two longer codes? Read 90834 vs 90837.
All codes
- 90791Psychiatric diagnostic evaluationNot time-based
- 9083230-minute psychotherapy16 to 37 minutes
- 9083445-minute psychotherapy38 to 52 minutes
- 9083760-minute psychotherapy53 minutes or more
- 90846Family psychotherapy without the clientAbout 50 minutes; at least 26
- 90847Family psychotherapy with the clientAbout 50 minutes; at least 26
- 90853Group psychotherapyNot time-based
- 90834 vs 90837Which one to billThe 53-minute line, documentation and payer reviews
CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. These pages summarize common billing practice and aren’t billing or legal advice; check each payer’s current policies. Doula billing Medi-Cal? Try the Medi-Cal doula reimbursement calculator.