CPT 90846 reports family psychotherapy conducted without the identified patient present. It is used when family members are seen to support the patient’s treatment.
When to use 90846
Use 90846 when meeting with family members or caregivers without the patient, typically around a 50-minute session. When the patient is present, use 90847 instead.
How to bill it
Report a single unit for the session and document who attended and the clinical rationale for excluding the patient.
Common pitfalls
- Confusing 90846 (without patient) with 90847 (with patient).
- Billing individual therapy for a session that was actually family therapy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 90846 and 90847?
90846 is family therapy without the patient present; 90847 is family therapy with the patient present.
Who should attend a 90846 session?
Family members, caregivers, or supports involved in the patient’s care, with a clinical reason for the patient not being present.