When and How to Bill CPT 90837 for 60-Minute Psychotherapy Sessions

When to Use CPT Code 90837

CPT 90837 is used for individual psychotherapy sessions lasting approximately 60 minutes.
This is the most comprehensive code for full-length therapy sessions and often used for in-depth treatment work.

• •Duration: 53 minutes or more (face-to-face)
• •When to bill: For longer sessions that involve deeper therapeutic exploration
• •Who uses it: Licensed therapists, psychologists, clinical social workers

Common scenarios:

• •Complex cases requiring extended time for trauma or relationship issues
• •Therapy sessions involving advanced modalities like EMDR or DBT
• •In-depth follow-up sessions for clients in crisis

Insurance Verification Tips for CPT 90837

1. •Some payers require authorization or justification for extended sessions.
2. •Confirm telehealth coverage and use modifier 95 if applicable.
3. •Document session length, content, and therapeutic approach clearly.
4. •Avoid “upcoding” — ensure session duration exceeds 53 minutes.

Example Case of CPT 90837

A psychologist conducts a 60-minute EMDR session with a patient addressing trauma-related anxiety.
Detailed notes include interventions, duration, and patient outcomes.
One unit of CPT 90837 is billed.