CPT® Code 90836

Add-On Code

Psychotherapy, 45 minutes with patient when performed with an evaluation and management service (List separately in addition to the code for primary procedure)

CPT® Code 90836 refers to a specific type of psychotherapy session that lasts for 45 minutes and is conducted with a patient. This service is performed in conjunction with an evaluation and management (E/M) service, which means that it is billed separately in addition to the primary procedure code for the E/M service. The psychotherapy provided under this code involves various therapeutic techniques aimed at helping the patient understand and modify their behavior. Techniques may include re-education, support, reassurance, and insight discussions. Occasionally, medication may also be utilized to assist in behavior modification. The goal of this psychotherapy is to enhance the patient's self-understanding and to evaluate and improve family relationship dynamics that may be impacting the patient's mental health condition. It is important to note that if psychotherapy is provided without the accompanying E/M service, different codes are used based on the duration of the session: CPT® Code 90832 for 30 minutes, CPT® Code 90834 for 45 minutes, and CPT® Code 90837 for 60 minutes. When psychotherapy is performed alongside E/M services, the appropriate codes to report are CPT® Code 90833 for 30 minutes, CPT® Code 90836 for 45 minutes, and CPT® Code 90838 for 60 minutes.