When it comes to billing for psychotherapy services, understanding the differences between various CPT codes is crucial for accurate reimbursement and compliance. Among these, CPT Code 90875 stands out for its specific use in psychotherapy with biofeedback. This article explores the key differences between CPT 90875 and other commonly used psychotherapy codes, helping healthcare providers, medical billers, and coders make informed decisions.

What is CPT Code 90875?

CPT Code 90875 is used for individual psychotherapy that includes biofeedback training in a session lasting approximately 20–30 minutes. This code is primarily utilized by mental health professionals who incorporate biofeedback techniques to address psychological disorders such as anxiety, stress, and PTSD.

Key Features of CPT 90875:

• Includes Biofeedback Training: Unlike standard psychotherapy codes, 90875 specifically integrates biofeedback techniques.
• Time-Based (20–30 minutes): The session duration must fall within this range.
• Used for Treating Stress-Related Disorders: Often applied in cases requiring both psychotherapy and physiological monitoring.

Comparing 90875 with Other Psychotherapy CPT Codes

1. CPT Code 90834 – Psychotherapy, 45 Minutes

• Primary Difference: Unlike 90875, CPT 90834 does not involve biofeedback.
• Usage: Standard psychotherapy session lasting 45 minutes.
• Application: Used for treating depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders.

2. CPT Code 90837 – Psychotherapy, 60 Minutes

• Primary Difference: No biofeedback component; session length is 60 minutes.
• Usage: Best for intensive therapy sessions.
• Application: Effective for trauma therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and long-form psychotherapy.

3. CPT Code 90832 – Psychotherapy, 30 Minutes

• Primary Difference: A shorter session length (30 minutes) without biofeedback.
• Usage: Suitable for brief interventions and follow-ups.
• Application: Common for short-term counseling and behavioral therapy.

4. CPT Code 90901 – Biofeedback, Any Modality

• Primary Difference: Focuses entirely on biofeedback training without psychotherapy.
• Usage: Used for physiological self-regulation (e.g., muscle relaxation, heart rate variability training).
• Application: Frequently used in pain management, anxiety reduction, and muscle rehabilitation.

When to Use CPT 90875 vs. Other Codes

Scenario	Best CPT Code
Short psychotherapy with biofeedback (20–30 min)	90875
Standard psychotherapy without biofeedback (45 min)	90834
Extended psychotherapy without biofeedback (60 min)	90837
Brief psychotherapy without biofeedback (30 min)	90832
Biofeedback therapy only (without psychotherapy)	90901

Conclusion

Choosing the right CPT code is essential for accurate billing and optimized reimbursement. CPT 90875 is unique as it integrates both psychotherapy and biofeedback training, making it different from traditional psychotherapy codes such as 90834, 90837, and 90832. If a session includes only biofeedback without psychotherapy, CPT 90901 should be used instead.

Understanding these distinctions ensures accurate documentation, proper reimbursement, and compliance with insurance requirements. For further clarification, consult with a certified medical coder or billing specialist to optimize your coding strategy.

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FAQs

1. Can CPT 90875 be billed alongside other psychotherapy codes?
It depends on payer policies, but in many cases, it cannot be billed on the same day as a standard psychotherapy session.

2. What documentation is required for CPT 90875?
Records should include details of both psychotherapy techniques and biofeedback training used in the session.

3. Is CPT 90875 covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurer. Some policies require pre-authorization for biofeedback services.

By leveraging the right CPT codes, mental health providers can streamline their billing process and enhance patient care. For expert guidance, reach out to a medical billing professional specializing in psychotherapy coding.