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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 45 to 50 minutes face-to-face with the patient;

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Individual psychotherapy, as described by CPT® Code 90818, refers to a therapeutic intervention conducted in an inpatient hospital, partial hospital, or residential care setting. This type of psychotherapy is characterized by its focus on insight-oriented techniques, behavior modification strategies, and supportive counseling. The session typically lasts approximately 45 to 50 minutes and involves face-to-face interaction between the therapist and the patient. During these sessions, the therapist employs various methods such as reeducation, support, reassurance, and discussions aimed at fostering insight into the patient's thoughts and behaviors. The goal of this psychotherapy is to facilitate behavior modification through enhanced self-understanding. It is important to note that if medical evaluation and management services are also provided during the same session, CPT® Code 90819 should be utilized instead of 90818. This distinction is crucial for accurate coding and billing purposes, ensuring that the services rendered are appropriately documented and reimbursed.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

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