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Official Description

Individual psychotherapy, insight oriented, behavior modifying and/or supportive, in an inpatient hospital, partial hospital or residential care setting, approximately 20 to 30 minutes face-to-face with the patient;

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Code 90816 refers to a specific type of individual psychotherapy that is conducted in an inpatient hospital, partial hospital, or residential care setting. This procedure typically lasts approximately 20 to 30 minutes and involves face-to-face interaction between the therapist and the patient. The therapy is characterized by its focus on insight-oriented techniques, behavior modification strategies, and supportive interventions. The aim of this psychotherapy is to facilitate behavior change through self-understanding, which may involve reeducation, support, reassurance, and discussions that promote insight into the patient's thoughts and feelings. It is important to note that if medical evaluation and management services are provided during the same session, the appropriate code to use would be 90817. This distinction is crucial for accurate medical coding and billing, ensuring that the services rendered are properly documented and reimbursed.

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