CPT Code 90840: Psychotherapy for crisis, each additional 30 min

When to Use CPT 90840

Use CPT code 90840 when billing for psychotherapy for crisis, each additional 30 min. This code is used by licensed therapists (LCSW, LPC, MFT, Psychologist) for outpatient sessions.

Adding CPT 90840 to a Superbill

When generating a superbill with CPT 90840, include the ICD-10 diagnosis code, date of service, fee charged, amount paid, and your NPI number. Superbilled pre-fills common therapy CPT codes automatically.

Common ICD-10 Pairings

These diagnosis codes are frequently used alongside CPT 90840:

Documentation Requirements

Document why additional time beyond 60 minutes was clinically necessary. Include ongoing risk assessment and crisis resolution steps.

Common Denial Reasons

• ✗ Billed without the primary 90839 code on the same date
• ✗ Insufficient documentation of continued crisis requiring extended time
• ✗ Time not clearly documented for the additional 30-minute increment

Modifier Notes

Add-on code — must be billed with 90839 as the primary service.

Reimbursement Expectations

OON reimbursement typically 50-65% of UCR. Expect $38-$90 per additional 30-minute increment.