CPT 97155ABA / Behavior AnalysisTimed · 15-min units

Adaptive behavior treatment with protocol modification

What CPT 97155 covers

CPT 97155 covers adaptive behavior treatment with protocol modification performed by the qualified provider (BCBA) — actively adjusting protocols during treatment, with or without simultaneous technician direction. Timed, 15-minute units.

Using 97155 on superbills

Use when the BCBA works directly with the child to modify protocols, or directs a technician in real time while modifying the protocol.
Not a supervision code per se — it is active treatment; pure oversight activities have different billing paths.

Documentation that supports it

What was modified and why, plus resulting protocol changes
Time and participants (child, technician, caregiver)

Common ICD-10 pairings

Examples seen in pediatric practice — always code the diagnosis that fits the client.

F84.0F84.5

FAQ

Can 97155 and 97153 be billed at the same time?

When the BCBA directs the technician during the session, payer policies commonly allow 97155 (BCBA) concurrent with 97153 (technician). OON reimbursement depends on the family's plan.

97151Behavior identification assessment 97153Adaptive behavior treatment by protocol 97156Family adaptive behavior treatment guidance

Educational reference only — not billing, coding, or legal advice. CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Verify current code definitions and payer policies before billing.