Cpt Code 90837 – Express MBS https://expressmbs.com Maximising Your Revenue, Minimising Your Stress Tue, 09 Jun 2026 18:10:56 +0000 en hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.3 https://expressmbs.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Express-MBS-Fav-Icon.svg Cpt Code 90837 – Express MBS https://expressmbs.com 32 32 Cpt Code 90837 Medical Billing Guide and Reimbursement Rate 2025 https://expressmbs.com/cpt-code-90837-billing-guide-and-reimbursement-rate/ https://expressmbs.com/cpt-code-90837-billing-guide-and-reimbursement-rate/#respond Mon, 03 Feb 2025 20:33:12 +0000 https://expressmbs.com/?p=13973 CPT Code 90837 is a billing code used for individual outpatient psychiatry sessions that last for at least 53 minutes. . Whether you are a private practice physician, counselor, or psychological, it is important to understand the specifics of the CPT code and ensure compliance. One of the most commonly used billing codes in psychiatry is CPT code, including a 60 -minute therapy session.

The post Cpt Code 90837 Medical Billing Guide and Reimbursement Rate 2025 appeared first on Express MBS.

]]>

Cpt Code 90837 Medical Billing Guide and Reimbursement Rate 2025

A women sit on chair thinking about psychological professional use code fo this process Cpt Code 90837

The world of medical billing can be difficult, especially when it comes to psychiatry sessions. Whether you are a private practice physician, counselor, or psychologist, it is important to understand the specifics of the CPT code and ensure compliance. One of the most commonly used billing codes in psychiatry is the CPT code, including a 60-minute therapy session.

In this guide, we will break down its needs, differences from the same code, and the way to maximize reimbursement while avoiding general billing mistakes.

What is CPT Code 90837?

CPT Code 90837 is a billing code used for individual outpatient psychiatry sessions that last for at least 53 minutes. This code applies to various medical forms -including:

  • Cognitive behavior therapy
  • Dialectical therapy
  • Mutual medicine (IPT)
  • Mindfulness-based intervention
  • Psychodynamic therapy

Therapists must document these sessions appropriately to demonstrate medical necessity and ensure reimbursement. Clear, evidence-based documentation.

90837 CPT Code vs. CPT 90834 and Other Psychotherapy Codes

Understanding the difference between CPT 90834 and CPT 90837 is essential for accurate billing:

Individual Therapy CPT Code

Add-On CPT Code for Extended Session

Length of Session

Services Rendered

90832

–

16-37 minutes

Psychotherapy, 30 minutes

90834

–

38-52 minutes

Psychotherapy, 45 minutes

90837

–

53 – 89 minutes

Psychotherapy, 60 minutes

90837

99354

90-134 minutes

Psychotherapy, 1:30 hrs – 2:14 hrs

90837

99354, 99355

135-164 minutes

Psychotherapy, 2:15 hrs – 2:44 hrs

90837

99354, 99355, 99355

165-194 minutes

Psychotherapy, 2:45 hrs – 3:14 hrs

90832, 90834, 90837

99050

N/A

Services performed outside of business hours.

90832, 90834, 90837

99051

N/A

Planned services are performed in the evening, weekends, or during a holiday.

For sessions lasting over 60 minutes, therapists previously used add-on CPT Code 99354 to bill for prolonged medical services. However, as of 2023, extended session billing using add-on codes is no longer permitted.

Can You Bill 2 Two Units of 90837?

Yes, you can bill two units of 90837 in a single day under specific conditions:

  • The client must have two distinct sessions that last at least 60 minutes each.
  • Each session must address separate therapeutic goals and include detailed documentation.
  • Insurers may require prior authorization or justification for multiple sessions per day.

Therapists should verify with insurance providers before scheduling multiple 90837 sessions to avoid claim denials. Providing authoritative sources, such as Medicare guidelines, enhances EEAT compliance.

90837 CPT Code Reimbursement Rates for 2025

Reimbursement rates for CPT Code 90837 vary based on location and payer agreements. However, Medicare’s 2025 reimbursement rate for 90837 is $154.29, reflecting a slight increase from previous years:

  • 2025: $154.29
  • 2024: $149.64
  • 2023: $147.07

Since CPT 90837 pays more than CPT 90834 due to the session length, therapists should document sessions accurately to ensure appropriate compensation. Linking to official Medicare and insurance providers.

Billing Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure successful reimbursement for CPT Code 90837, keep these best practices in mind:

  • Document Session Time Accurately – Sessions must last at least 53 minutes to qualify. Rounding up or down is not allowed.
  • Provide Clear Medical Necessity – Justify the need for a 60-minute session, including treatment plan goals and client progress.
  • Specify the Type of Therapy provided – Mention whether the session included CBT, DBT, or other structured interventions.
  • Stay Updated on Insurance Policies – Some payers limit reimbursement for 90837, so verify policies before billing.

Ensure Proper Use of CPT 90832 and CPT Code 30-Minute Psychotherapy – If sessions are shorter, use CPT 90832 (16-37 minutes) or CPT 90834 (38-52 minutes) instead.

Conclusion

CPT Code 90837 billing ensures accurate claims processing and maximizes reimbursement for mental health professionals. Whether you’re working with Medicare or private insurance, documenting session time, treatment goals, and interventions used is critical.

If you’re considering billing two units of 90837 in one day, ensure you meet the required criteria and check with the insurance provider for approval. Keeping informed about reimbursement rates, documentation requirements, and CPT code guidelines helps maintain a financially sustainable practice while providing quality patient care.

Need more help?
Get A Free Practice Audit!
Contact Us

Recent Post

Get Free Medical Billing Audit

The post Cpt Code 90837 Medical Billing Guide and Reimbursement Rate 2025 appeared first on Express MBS.

]]> https://expressmbs.com/cpt-code-90837-billing-guide-and-reimbursement-rate/feed/ 0