© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
Individual psychotherapy, as described by CPT® Code 90821, refers to a therapeutic intervention that is conducted in a structured environment such as an inpatient hospital, partial hospital, or residential care setting. This type of psychotherapy is characterized by a face-to-face interaction with the patient lasting approximately 75 to 80 minutes. The primary focus of this therapy is to facilitate insight-oriented discussions, which aim to enhance the patient's self-understanding and promote behavior modification. Techniques employed during these sessions may include reeducation, support, reassurance, and, when necessary, the occasional use of medication to assist in achieving therapeutic goals. It is important to note that if medical evaluation and management services are provided in conjunction with this psychotherapy, CPT® Code 90822 should be utilized instead. This distinction is crucial for accurate coding and billing purposes, ensuring that all aspects of the patient's care are appropriately documented and reimbursed.
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