CPT Code 90847 refers to family psychotherapy sessions (conjoint psychotherapy) involving the identified patient and at least one family member or significant other. These sessions aim to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships that impact the patient’s mental health. The therapy focuses on family dynamics, helping to create a supportive environment for the patient’s well-being.
With a minimum of 26 minutes of face-to-face interaction, these sessions provide structured guidance to address emotional and behavioral challenges within the family system. Only one individual is designated as the patient on the claim, even though multiple family members may be involved.
Key Features of CPT Code 90847
Here are the key features of CPT code 90847, which is used for family psychotherapy sessions with the patient present.
- Time-Based: CPT code 90847 represents a 50-minute session with a minimum of 26 minutes of face-to-face time with the patient and family members present.
- Patient Present: The identified patient must be present during the session.
- Focus on Family Dynamics: The session should primarily focus on improving the family system and relationships.
- One Patient per Claim: Even though multiple family members may be present, only one individual is identified as the patient on the claim form.
Who Can Bill for CPT 90847?
Licensed mental health professionals who are qualified to provide family therapy can bill for CPT code 90847. This typically includes:
- Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs)
- Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs)
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs)
- Clinical Psychologists (PhDs or PsyDs)
- Psychiatrists (MDs)
When to Use CPT Code 90847
CPT Code 90847 is appropriate in scenarios where family involvement is necessary for the patient’s treatment plan. Common use cases include:
- A family with a teenager experiencing anxiety: The therapist facilitates a session with the teenager and their parents to explore family dynamics that may be contributing to the anxiety and develop coping strategies.
- A couple struggling with communication: The therapist works with both partners to improve their communication skills, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their relationship.
- A blended family navigating new roles and boundaries: The therapist helps family members adjust to their new family structure, address challenges, and build healthy relationships.
Billing Guidelines for CPT Code 90847
Accurate billing for CPT 90847 requires adherence to specific guidelines to ensure compliance and proper reimbursement:
1. Patient Presence Is Mandatory
- The identified patient must be present for at least part of the session (minimum of 16 minutes).
- If the patient is absent, use CPT Code 90846 instead (family therapy without the patient present).
2. Session Duration
- The session must last at least 26 minutes to qualify for billing under CPT Code 90847.
- Document the exact time spent in progress notes for accurate billing.
3. Medical Necessity
Establish medical necessity by linking the session to the patient’s diagnosis and treatment plan. Use appropriate ICD-10 codes (e.g., F32.9 for Major Depressive Disorder or F43.10 for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).
4. Documentation Requirements
Include detailed progress notes that describe:
- The purpose of the session ( improving communication or addressing conflict).
- Participants’ roles and relationships to the patient.
- Interventions used during therapy and how they align with the treatment plan.
- Progress made toward treatment goals.
5. Avoid Same-Day Billing Conflicts
Do not bill CPT Codes 90846 (family therapy without the patient) and 90847 on the same day unless services are distinctly separate and documented accordingly.
More Psychoanalysis Billing Code : CPT Code 90845
Reimbursement Rates for CPT Code 90847
Reimbursement rates for CPT Code 90847 vary based on factors such as geographic location, provider type, and payer policies:
- Medicare Reimbursement Rates: In 2025, Medicare reimburses approximately $102–$110 per session, depending on location.
- Private Insurance Rates: Private insurers typically reimburse between $85–$200 per session, with higher rates in areas with a higher cost of living or for specialized providers like psychiatrists.
To determine exact reimbursement amounts:
- Consult the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) or your local Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC).
- Verify rates with private insurance payers before providing services.
Best Practices for Maximizing Reimbursement
To ensure accurate billing and maximize reimbursement for CPT Code 90847:
- Verify Insurance Coverage: Check payer policies to confirm coverage for family psychotherapy and determine if prior authorization is required.
- Use Specific Diagnosis Codes: Submit ICD-10 codes that support medical necessity,
- Train Staff Effectively: Keep billing teams updated on coding changes, documentation requirements, and payer guidelines to minimize errors.
- Leverage Technology: Use billing software to detect coding errors, ensure proper documentation, and streamline claim submissions.
- Monitor Denial Trends: Regularly review denial reports to identify patterns, address root causes, and reduce future claim rejections.
- Communicate with Patients: Clearly explain insurance coverage, potential out-of-pocket costs, and payment expectations to avoid billing disputes.
Family Psychotherapy CPT Codes Comparison
Here is a table comparing the different family psychotherapy CPT codes: 90864, 90847, and 90837:
| CPT Code | Description | Session Duration |
| 90846 | Family psychotherapy without patient present | Minimum of 26 minutes |
| 90847 | Family psychotherapy without the patient present | Minimum of 26 minutes |
| 90837 | Individual psychotherapy (60+ minutes) | Minimum of 53 minutes |
Final Thoughts
CPT Code 90847 is an essential tool for mental health professionals addressing family dynamics that directly impact a patient’s mental health treatment goals. By understanding its components, adhering to billing guidelines, using appropriate modifiers, and avoiding common mistakes, healthcare providers can ensure accurate claims submission and timely reimbursement while delivering high-quality care.
