Subscribe to out newsletter today to receive latest news administrate cost effective for tactical data.
Infinitercm is a US-based corporation that provides medical billing and transcription services to the medical community across the United States and Canada.
Mental Health CPT Codes: The Definitive Guide [2025]CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes are essential for mental health professionals to accurately document services rendered and ensure appropriate reimbursement from insurance providers. In 2025, several updates and clarifications have been introduced to help streamline billing processes and maintain compliance with regulatory standards. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the most relevant CPT codes for mental health services in 2025, organized by service type, and includes tips for proper use and documentation.
InfinitercmCPT codes are five-digit numeric codes developed by the American Medical Association (AMA) to describe medical, surgical, and diagnostic services. In mental health, these codes cover a wide range of services, from psychotherapy to diagnostic evaluations. Mental health CPT codes are primarily found in the 908XX series, but codes outside this range may also apply, depending on the service provided.
90791: Psychiatric diagnostic evaluation (without medical services)
90792: Psychiatric diagnostic evaluation (with medical services, e.g., when performed by a psychiatrist) 2. Psychotherapy
90832: Psychotherapy, 30 minutes (16-37 minutes)
90834: Psychotherapy, 45 minutes (38-52 minutes)
90837: Psychotherapy, 60 minutes (53+ minutes)
90846: Family psychotherapy (without the patient present)
90847: Family psychotherapy (with the patient present)
90853: Group psychotherapy
3. Crisis Psychotherapy
Crisis codes are used for emergency mental health interventions.
90839: Psychotherapy for a crisis, first 60 minutes
90840: Add-on code for each additional 30 minutes of crisis therapy
Key Notes:
Crisis codes require documentation of immediate threat to the patient’s safety or severe functional impairment.
4. Interactive Complexity
Add-on codes for psychotherapy involve additional complexity, such as communication barriers or involvement of third parties.
90785: Interactive complexity (used with psychotherapy codes)
5. Medication Management
For providers who prescribe and manage psychiatric medications.
90863: Pharmacologic management, used only in conjunction with psychotherapy
99202-99215: Evaluation and Management (E/M) services for medication management (based on complexity)
Tips:
Accurately document medical decision-making and time spent managing medications.
6. Testing and Assessments
Psychological and neuropsychological testing codes are used when administering, scoring, and interpreting tests.
96130: Psychological testing evaluation services, first hour
96131: Each additional hour
96136: Psychological or neuropsychological test administration, first 30 minutes (by technician)
96137: Each additional 30 minutes
96138: Psychological or neuropsychological test administration, first 30 minutes (by a clinician)
96139: Each additional 30 minutes
With the expansion of telehealth services, many CPT codes can now be used for virtual sessions. Ensure that: Telehealth Modifiers (GT or 95) are included. Place of Service Code (02 or 10) is correctly applied to indicate telehealth. Commonly used telehealth codes: 90791, 90792: Diagnostic evaluations 90832, 90834, 90837: Individual psychotherapy 90846, 90847: Family psychotherapy Tips for Accurate Billing and Coding Understand Time Requirements: CPT codes often have time thresholds. Ensure your session meets the required duration. Stay Up-to-Date with Payer Policies: Insurance carriers may have unique requirements. Use Add-On Codes When Applicable: For extended sessions or additional complexities. Maintain Thorough Documentation: This supports medical necessity and avoids claim denials. Leverage Billing Software: Use tools that update codes regularly to avoid outdated billing practices.
Mental health CPT codes are vital for ensuring accurate billing and proper reimbursement. By understanding and utilizing the correct codes for each service type, mental health professionals can focus on delivering high-quality care without unnecessary administrative burdens. For 2025, staying informed about code updates, documentation requirements, and payer-specific guidelines will help streamline your practice’s operations and improve financial outcomes. Always consult the American Medical Association’s CPT Manual and payer policies for the latest information.