Intake
Duration
Intake sessions are typically 60–90 minutes. Do not book a standard 55-minute slot for an intake.
Required documentation
- Intake note (90791) — completed within 24 hours
- Diagnosis documented in Sessions Health
- Treatment plan initiated within the first 1–2 sessions
- Confirm all consent paperwork is signed in Sessions Health before the session
Scheduling workflow
Michael routes new clients from the consultation gate to your calendar. Do not self-schedule new intakes without coordinating with Michael. Confirm insurance verification is complete before the first session.
Couples intake
Couples intakes use CPT codes 90791 (individual intake) and 90847 (family therapy with patient present) billed under Person A's insurance. Do not use two 90791 codes. Book both under Person A's individual record in Sessions Health.
Consultation workflow
Free consultations are 15–20 minutes. Not billable. Document in Sessions Health. If proceeding to intake, Michael coordinates next steps with the client.
Fit determination
If a client is not a fit for your caseload, notify Joe and Michael promptly. Do not continue scheduling while fit concerns are unresolved. Referrals to outside providers should be documented.
CPT billing codes
| Code | Service | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 90791 | Psychiatric diagnostic evaluation | Use for all intake sessions. 60–90 min. |
| 90834 | Individual therapy, 45 min | Use when session is clearly shorter than standard. |
| 90837 | Individual therapy, 60 min | Standard session code. 53–60 minutes. |
| 90847 | Family therapy with patient present | Use for couples sessions after intake. |
| 90846 | Family therapy without patient present | Use for collateral sessions (parent consultation, etc.). |
When in doubt about which code to use, ask Joe before billing.