How To Use CPT Code 90849

CPT 90849 describes the procedure of multiple-family group psychotherapy, a form of therapy where a provider conducts a session with a group of patients’ families. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 90849?

CPT 90849 can be used to describe the procedure of multiple-family group psychotherapy. In this therapy, a provider conducts a session with a group of patients’ families who are facing similar mental and emotional health problems. The aim is to deliver the therapy session to families dealing with issues like domestic violence, sexual abuse, or alcohol dependence. By participating in a group setting, families realize that they are not alone in their struggles and can find support from others facing similar challenges. This approach fosters a sense of community and encourages commitment to change.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 90849 is: ‘Multiple-family group psychotherapy, provided by a provider to a group of patients’ families facing similar mental and emotional health problems.’

3. Procedure

1. During multiple-family group psychotherapy, a provider conducts a therapy session with a group of patients’ families.
2. The therapy session aims to address the mental and emotional health problems faced by the families, such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, or alcohol dependence.
3. The provider uses various techniques to facilitate the therapy session and help the families work through their challenges.
4. The session typically involves discussions, activities, and exercises that promote communication, understanding, and support among the families.
5. By participating in the therapy session together, families learn from each other’s experiences and gain a sense of belonging and community.
6. The provider guides the session, ensuring that each family has an opportunity to share and receive support.
7. Additional sessions may be scheduled as needed to continue the therapy and address ongoing issues.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 90849 is appropriate for families facing similar mental and emotional health problems, such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, or alcohol dependence. The therapy session must be conducted by a qualified provider and involve multiple families. It is important to note that CPT 90849 should be reported once for each family group present, rather than for each individual family member.

5. When to use CPT code 90849

CPT code 90849 should be used when a provider conducts multiple-family group psychotherapy for families facing similar mental and emotional health problems. It is important to ensure that the therapy session involves multiple families and addresses their shared challenges. This code should be used for each therapy session provided to a group of patients’ families.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 90849, the provider must document the following information:

• Description of the mental and emotional health problems faced by the families
• Details of the therapy session, including the date, start and end time
• Techniques and activities used during the session
• Progress made by the families and any additional sessions scheduled
• Signature of the provider conducting the therapy session

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 90849, ensure that the therapy session involves multiple families facing similar mental and emotional health problems. It is important to report CPT 90849 once for each family group present, rather than for each individual family member. Consider any additional guidelines provided by payers or specific coding instructions for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 90849 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider conducting a multiple-family group psychotherapy session for families affected by domestic violence.
2. A therapist facilitating a therapy session for families dealing with the impact of sexual abuse.
3. A counselor leading a multiple-family group psychotherapy session for families struggling with alcohol dependence.
4. A psychologist conducting a therapy session for families facing similar mental health challenges, such as depression or anxiety.
5. A social worker facilitating a multiple-family group psychotherapy session for families coping with the effects of trauma.
6. A psychiatrist leading a therapy session for families dealing with the challenges of a loved one’s substance abuse.
7. A licensed marriage and family therapist conducting a multiple-family group psychotherapy session for families affected by grief and loss.
8. A counselor facilitating a therapy session for families navigating the complexities of blended families.
9. A psychologist leading a multiple-family group psychotherapy session for families dealing with parenting challenges.
10. A social worker conducting a therapy session for families facing the impact of a loved one’s mental illness.