From the Guidelines
CPT code 90832 represents a psychotherapy session, and according to the most recent evidence, it is one of the codes that can be used with a telemedicine modifier ("95") to indicate that services were provided using telemedicine technology. This code is used by mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, when billing for individual psychotherapy services 1. The session typically involves therapeutic communication and activities designed to address mental health conditions or psychological issues. Some key points to consider when using this code include:
- The provider must use an interactive audio and video telecommunications system that permits real-time communication between the beneficiary at the originating sites (patient sites) and the provider at the distant site (physician or other qualified health care professional) 1.
- The telehealth modifier cannot be used with the asynchronous (store and forward) technology 1.
- The code is part of a series of psychotherapy codes that vary based on session duration, and 90832 is specifically mentioned as one of the codes of interest to psychiatrists that can be used with the telemedicine modifier ("95") 1. When using this code, the provider should document the start and end times of the session, therapeutic techniques used, the patient's response to treatment, and any plans for future sessions.
From the Research
CPT Code 90832 Description
- CPT code 90832 refers to a 30-minute psychotherapy session with a physician or other qualified healthcare professional [ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 ].
- This code is used to bill for individual psychotherapy sessions, which may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, or other forms of talk therapy.
- The session may be conducted in an office or outpatient setting and may involve the use of various therapeutic techniques, such as exposure, cognitive therapy, or supportive psychotherapy.
Psychotherapy Techniques
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common technique used in psychotherapy sessions, which focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors [ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 ].
- Psychodynamic psychotherapy is another technique used, which focuses on exploring the underlying causes of a patient's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors [ 2, 3, 4, 5 ].
- Other techniques, such as exposure and supportive psychotherapy, may also be used in conjunction with CBT or psychodynamic psychotherapy [ 3, 4, 5, 6 ].
Billing and Insurance
- CPT code 90832 is used to bill for individual psychotherapy sessions with a physician or other qualified healthcare professional [ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 ].
- The code may be used in conjunction with other CPT codes, such as 90834 or 90837, to bill for longer or more intensive psychotherapy sessions.
- Insurance coverage for CPT code 90832 may vary depending on the patient's insurance plan and the specific services provided [ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 ].