You're confusing "counseling" in the E&M codes with "psychotherapy". Read the description of counseling in the front of your CPT book.

Remember that you must always code to the MOST SPECIFIC code. The most specific code for a psychiatric encounter, after 1/1/13, will be an E&M code plus a therapy add-on code, IF there is psychotherapy during the encounter.

The APA has specifically said that you CANNOT use the E&M codes based on time for psychiatric encounters, since there is an add-on code that accounts for time. There is a lot of information here on their site: http://www.psych.org/practice/managing-a-practice/cpt-changes-2013/current-procedural-terminology-cpt-code-changes-for-2013

From the APA's FAQ:

Q: Can I choose the E/M code on the basis of time spent providing counseling and coordination of care and also bill for psychotherapy using the psychotherapy add-on?
A: No, if you are doing psychotherapy in conjunction with an E/M service, you must choose the E/M code on the basis of the work performed, NOT on the basis of time spent providing counseling and coordination of care.



Sharon
Moderator

Nothing I say shall be construed as legal advice; always check with your own financial or legal advisors for your specific situation.