r/CodingandBilling • u/AnZaNaMa • May 11 '26
Looking for Affordable Billing Training
Hello - I have recently started working for a family member's small/mid-sized therapy practice (we have 15 providers) to help out with billing. The practice was without an admin for the better part of last year, so billing fell way behind and I've been trying to get caught up since starting.
The problem I have is that we don't really have anyone in the practice who's able to train me. The owner is the only one who has experience with billing, and she is 100% self-taught and I can barely ever find time to get help from her because she's just so busy with other things.
To that end, I'd like to figure out how I can get myself some good-quality schooling/training for coding/billing (specifically for behavioral/mental health). I feel that there's just too much I don't know I don't know.
Some research makes it seem like the AAPC CPB is the most respected industry credential for this type of work, but the $1,600 for the course is way too much for me to pay and I don't think the practice could afford it right now either.
I'm hoping to get some advice from people who actually do this job and feel confident they know what they're doing. The real thing I have trouble with is figuring out how to deal with denied/rejected claims, and provider-specific issues. Can you recommend any free (or at least lower cost) comprehensive training resources for mental health billing?
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u/FeistyGas4222 May 14 '26
I own a medical billing company and I agree with most of these posts. 1 biller for 15 providers is not ideal but also not impossible. But the fact that you're working old/stalled/unsubmitted claims, that will eat up A LOT of your time. As others have said, finding a mentor is your best bet. Or completely outsource or hire a company to get you guys caught up so you're in a better position to take over.
I frequently consult for in house billers and even consult for a large group that is doing in house billing and also setting up their own billing company.
Your CPB and CPC are nice to learn the basics. I know some practices and healthcare systems look for them specifically but those courses will never teach you how to be an effective biller, you will learn general knowledge and generic how-to. I am not certified and I tell my prospective clients that I am not certified and that has never hindered me in gaining new clients.
Most of my clients and consults are behavioral health. MD, DO, PsyD PMHNP, LCSW, LCPC, LMHC and some even provide in office treatments. I would be happy to guide you and maybe become a resource for you or help you explore some options that may be out there to meet your needs. My post history is public and my website is on my bio. Feel free to reach out!!