CPT Code 97153: A Complete Billing Guide for ABA Therapy Providers

Understanding billing codes in ABA therapy can feel like learning a new language. But if you're a provider, BCBA, or even managing billing, there's one code you’ll run into again and again—CPT Code 97153.

This post will walk you through everything you need to know about the 97153 CPT code in a simple, clear, and useful way.

CPT Code 97153 Explained

CPT Code 97153 is used in ABA therapy billing when a trained technician—typically a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)—works one-on-one with a client. These sessions are guided by a treatment plan developed and supervised by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Adaptive behavior treatment by protocol, administered by a technician, face-to-face with one patient, each 15 minutes.

When using CPT Code 97153, an RBT works face-to-face with a child under the BCBA’s supervision. The RBT helps the child improve communication, reduce problem behaviors, and strengthen everyday skills, all according to the personalized behavior plan designed for that child.

When Should You Use CPT 97153?

This code is used more than almost any other in ABA therapy. But it’s important to know when it actually fits.

Use CPT 97153 when:

• A technician (RBT or similar) is providing direct therapy to a child.

• The session is based on a written protocol by a BCBA.

• The interaction is face-to-face with just one client.

• Each unit billed equals 15 minutes of therapy time.

Example

A technician works with a child for 1 hour, using programs designed by the BCBA. That’s 4 units of 97153.

What’s Not Covered Under CPT Code 97153

One of the most frequently used codes, CPT 97153, is also frequently misinterpreted. It excludes the following:

Supervision Time: Any time the BCBA spends monitoring, directing, or altering the program is separately paid and typically falls under CPT 97155.

When there are multiple clients in a group therapy session, use 97154.

Training for Caregivers: For one-on-one parent or caregiver training sessions, use 97156.

Inappropriate use of 97153 may result in payment delays, claim denials, or compliance problems.

Documentation Requirements for CPT Code 97153

Want to get paid without headaches? Make sure your documentation is solid.

Here’s what every 97153 session note should include:

• Client’s full name and date of session

• Start and end time of therapy

• Technician’s full name and credentials

• Goals addressed during the session

• Techniques used (e.g., prompting, reinforcement)

• Data or notes collected

• Technician signature (and BCBA review if required)

A simple form or template can help ensure your RBTs capture all this correctly. Learn how to avoid documentation errors that trigger audits in our documentation and coding compliance guide.

How do I bill CPT Code 97153 correctly to avoid denials and delays?

Billing for CPT Code 97153 goes far beyond selecting the correct code. What truly matters is keeping your claims accurate, clean, and on time—because that’s how you reduce denials and keep payments flowing smoothly.

Simple Tips for Accurate 97153 Billing

• Check for pre-authorization: Some insurance companies require approval before therapy starts. Always confirm this to avoid claim rejections later.

• Add the right modifiers: A few payers need modifiers such as HM to indicate that the service was provided by a technician or RBT. Others may have their own supervision-based rules, so review each payer’s guidelines.

• Bill by exact time: Only bill in full 15-minute units. If you complete 50 minutes, you can bill for three full units—no rounding up.

• Include supervision codes when needed: When a BCBA reviews or updates a treatment plan during the same period, bill 97155 along with 97153.

• Submit on time: Each payer has filing deadlines. Sending claims promptly keeps your cash flow steady and prevents late denials. Avoid common mistakes with our guide to ABA billing errors and how to fix them

Even small mistakes in billing—like missing a modifier or using the wrong time unit—can quietly eat into your revenue. Over time, those small errors can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars in lost payments.

97153 CPT Code vs. Other ABA Codes

Here’s a quick side-by-side to show where 97153 stands among similar ABA therapy codes:

CPT Code	What It's For	Who Delivers It	Face-to-Face	Time per Unit
97153	Direct therapy with 1 client	Technician (RBT)	✅ Yes	15 minutes
97155	Supervision or protocol modification	BCBA or QHP	✅ Yes	15 minutes
97151	Assessment and treatment planning	BCBA	✅ Yes	15 minutes
97154	Group adaptive behavior treatment	Technician	✅ Yes	15 minutes
97156	Caregiver/parent training	BCBA	✅ Yes	15 minutes

Choosing the wrong code might mean less money or denied claims—even if the work was done properly. Want to explore all CPT codes side-by-side? Use our ABA code conversion table

What Occurs If You Enter CPT Code 97153 Incorrectly?

If your BCBA conducts a parent education session, they may bill it under CPT Code 97153 rather than the appropriate code, 97156. It may appear like a small error. The truth is that it isn't.

The following major issues can arise from using the incorrect code:

• They are rejecting your claim.

• Payroll delays

• The insurance company is requesting reimbursement.

• Even under severe circumstances, losing your insurance company contract

Observe the code guidelines to prevent these issues. Before submitting claims, always double-check and use each code for its intended purpose. 

The Effect of CPT Code 97153 on Reimbursements

An important factor in ABA therapy billing is CPT 97153. One of the most popular codes, it facilitates the seamless operation of your practice when utilized appropriately.

Here's what occurs when billed accurately:

• Payments arrive faster.

• Rejections of claims are declining.

• The cash flow at your clinic is higher.

• Insurance companies have faith in your billing techniques.

You might have to spend hours resolving denied claims or pursuing unpaid amounts, though, if this code is applied incorrectly or if supporting documentation is lacking.

Desire to remain ahead? Make sure your billing staff and RBTs are properly trained, that your session notes are sound, and that your claims are examined before being submitted.

 If you're launching a practice, check out our guide to starting your own ABA clinic

FAQ

1. What are the CPT code 97153 billing guidelines?

CPT Code 97153 is billed for 1:1 technician-led sessions. Always follow 15-minute units, use correct modifiers, and include detailed session documentation.

2. What is the billing code for ABA therapy?

ABA therapy uses multiple CPT codes. For technician-led sessions, CPT Code 97153 is the most common. Other services use codes like 97151, 97155, or 97156.

3. Can 97153 and 97156 be billed together?

Yes, if both services are delivered on the same day and properly documented. 97153 is for technician sessions, 97156 is for caregiver training.

Conclusion

Using CPT Code 97153 will be an everyday occurrence if you work in ABA therapy. However, accurately billing it is what keeps everything running, from clinic operations to client care.

Let's review the fundamentals:

• For one-on-one direct sessions led by a technician or RBT, use CPT 97153.

• It should not be used for assessments, caregiver education, or BCBA supervision.

• Always make sure your documentation is clear and comprehensive.

• Observe payer policies regarding time units, modifiers, and authorizations.

• Reduce delays and denials by timely submission of clean claims.

Do you want to avoid invoicing hassles? Assist a billing partner who is well-versed in CPT Code 97153.