90846 — Family Psychotherapy without Patient Present
Family or couples therapy session conducted without the identified patient present. This code is used when a clinician meets with family members to address dynamics, psychoeducation, or treatment planning related to the identified client's condition.
Time Requirements
50 minutes face-to-face. Some payers accept a time range similar to 90834 (38-52 min).
Modifiers
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 95 | Synchronous telemedicine service. |
When to Use
- Meeting with parents/guardians about a minor client's treatment
- Family psychoeducation sessions (e.g., explaining a diagnosis)
- Collateral sessions with a spouse or partner when the client is not present
- Treatment planning discussions with family members
When Not to Use
- When the identified patient is present — use 90847
- When providing individual therapy to the family member (they would need their own case)
- Phone calls or brief consultations — not billable under this code
- Case management or coordination of care without psychotherapy component
Common Denial Reasons
- Identified patient was present during the session (should be 90847)
- Documentation does not identify the relationship to the identified patient
- Session did not include psychotherapeutic techniques
- Billed by a provider not credentialed with the payer for family therapy
Payer Notes
Coverage varies significantly by payer. Many commercial plans cover family therapy but may require the identified patient's diagnosis to support medical necessity. Medicaid coverage varies by state.
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