ICD-10 for therapists
F33.1 — Major depressive disorder, recurrent, moderate
A moderate-severity depressive episode in a client with a history of prior episodes — one of the most frequently billed diagnoses in outpatient mental health.
- Code
- F33.1 (ICD-10-CM)
- Common CPT pairings
- 90791 · 90834 · 90837 · 90847
Clinical picture
- Combines the recurrent course (at least one prior episode with recovery between) with moderate current severity.
- Review what has and hasn't worked in prior episodes — treatment history is the best predictor of response.
- Screen for comorbid anxiety (F41.1 is a frequent companion) and substance use, both of which alter the plan.
Documentation tips
- Establish the recurrent course explicitly at intake and reference it in the treatment plan.
- Track a standardized measure across the episode; payers respond well to demonstrated measurement-based care.
Billing notes
Robust support for weekly psychotherapy. When family work is clinically indicated, 90847 requires the identified patient present and family-focused content documented.
Related codes
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Start free — no credit cardThis reference summarizes ICD-10-CM coding conventions and common billing practice for licensed clinicians. It is not medical, legal, or payer-specific billing advice; diagnosis requires clinical evaluation, and payer policies vary. Verify codes against the current ICD-10-CM release.