CPT 90832 + ICD-10 F60.3: Borderline personality disorder

Compatibility Notes

This combination is used for abbreviated DBT skills-coaching sessions or check-in visits for BPD patients in a structured treatment program. Insurers may scrutinize the medical necessity of 30-minute sessions for BPD; some require documentation of a larger treatment program (DBT group + individual) to justify shorter individual sessions. Ensure session time falls within the 16–37 minute range.

Documentation Required

• ✓Session start and stop times confirming 16–37 minutes
• ✓Documented rationale for shorter session length (e.g., part of a structured DBT program, patient tolerance, skills-coaching focus)
• ✓BPD diagnosis with active symptom documentation (affective instability, impulsivity, identity disturbance, etc.)
• ✓DBT skills practiced or reinforced during session
• ✓Safety check: self-harm, suicidal ideation, and crisis behaviors reviewed

Common Denial Reasons

• ✗Session time does not fall within the 16–37 minute window — use 90834 if session is 38+ minutes
• ✗BPD diagnosis requires higher-level care per payer policy — denial if outpatient 1:1 therapy is deemed insufficient without group component
• ✗Insufficient documentation of evidence-based BPD-specific interventions
• ✗Missing safety risk assessment, which is scrutinized heavily for BPD claims

Applicable Modifiers

Reimbursement Notes

Related Billing Guides