The Top 10 Most Popular ABA Billing Codes — And What They Actually Mean

Let’s be honest—billing codes aren’t exactly anyone’s favorite part of running an ABA practice. Between providing quality therapy to your kiddos, managing a team, and keeping up with parent communication, remembering CPT codes can feel like one more thing you don’t have time for.

At Piece by Piece Billing Solutions, we get it. We specialize in helping small ABA therapy practices like yours stay on top of the ever-changing world of billing. Knowing your codes matters—not just for clean claims and faster payments, but for making your life a whole lot easier in the long run.

So, we’ve pulled together a friendly guide to the top 10 most commonly used ABA billing codes. Think of it as your go-to cheat sheet—and a reminder that you don’t have to tackle billing alone.

ABA Billing Codes + What The Actually Mean

97151 – Assessment by Behavior Analyst

This is the big one for initial assessments and treatment planning. It’s used when a BCBA is directly involved in observing, interviewing, and developing the treatment plan.

🧠 Pro tip: This code is typically billed in 15-minute increments and can be used over multiple sessions if needed.

97153 – Direct ABA Therapy (Technician)

This one’s the bread and butter of ABA services. It covers one-on-one time between the client and an RBT or behavior technician under the supervision of a BCBA.

👩‍🏫 Use this when: A tech is providing direct therapy using the BCBA's treatment plan. It must be face-to-face.

97155 – Supervision and Direction by BCBA

This code is for when a BCBA is actively supervising, observing, or making real-time changes to the treatment plan while therapy is happening.

🧭 Think of it as: Your hands-on time fine-tuning the plan with the client or technician present.

97156 – Parent or Caregiver Training

Parent involvement is key, and this code lets you bill for it. This covers face-to-face sessions with parents or caregivers, with or without the client present.

💬 Hot tip: This is essential for generalization, and payers love seeing it used appropriately.

97157 – Group Parent Training

If you’re running a parent training group, this is your go-to. It’s used when multiple caregivers are trained together in a group setting.

👨‍👩‍👧 Billing reminder: Each caregiver must be a part of an authorized treatment plan for this code to apply.

97158 – Group ABA Therapy

This covers ABA therapy in a group format, delivered by a technician with oversight from a BCBA. Think social skills groups or peer playgroups.

🎯 Ideal for: Clients working on social interaction, turn-taking, or peer engagement.

0362T – Behavior ID Assessment (Complex)

A lesser-known code, but important for more involved assessments. This code is used when assessing severe behaviors or working with clients who need more intensive observation.

🔍 Heads up: It requires at least two staff members and is usually used in clinic or center-based settings.

0373T – Adaptive Behavior Treatment with Protocol Modification

This is an advanced supervision code—used when a BCBA is not just supervising, but actively modifying the treatment protocol during the session.

📋 Use with care: Document those changes clearly to support billing.

H0031 – Mental Health Assessment (Often Used by Medicaid)

If you're working with Medicaid clients, this code often replaces 97151 for assessments depending on the state. It varies, so check your payer guidelines.

⚖️ Stay flexible: Some payers stick with CPT codes, others prefer HCPCS codes like this one.

H2019 – Therapeutic Behavioral Services (TBS)

Another Medicaid favorite, this one is typically used for direct therapy when Medicaid doesn’t accept 97153. Again, check your region’s guidelines!

💡 Pro tip: Double-check authorization and payer requirements before using any HCPCS code.

Billing Codes Got You Feeling a Little Overwhelmed? That’s Normal. We Got You!

We’ve helped countless small ABA practices who felt the same way—and we’re here to remind you that you don’t have to memorize every code or become a billing expert overnight. Knowing these key codes and understanding when and how to use them is a great step in running a more efficient, profitable, and stress-free practice.

At Piece by Piece Billing Solutions, we provide ABA Billing Services, and specialize in working with small ABA providers who need reliable support, fast responses, and billing that just works.

Need Help with Your ABA Billing?

Let us take the stress off your plate—so you can focus on what you do best: helping your clients grow, one piece at a time. Book a Free Consultation today and let’s simplify your billing process together.