Funding Sources for ABA Treatment

1. Early Intervention (Ages 0-3): Health Insurance Pays

• ABA therapy for young children typically begins as 1:1 sessions at home and may gradually include shadowing at preschool.
• Health insurance covers the entire therapy, focusing on teaching skills like communication, social, and adaptive skills.
• When looking for ABA providers, ask which insurance companies they accept and inquire about the funding process.
• In California, the Regional Center can assist with co-pays and deductibles. They can also guide you on obtaining Medi-Cal coverage if needed.

2. School Age: Both School District and Health Insurance Contribute

• School districts fund 1:1 aide services at school through the Individualized Education Program (IEP) because these services are considered “educational.”
• Health insurance continues to cover 1:1 therapy at home, focusing on social, daily living, and adaptive skills for community integration.
• It’s essential to have one cohesive ABA program with a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) overseeing both school and home components.
• Advocating for an intensive ABA program as part of the IEP may require effort, but it’s worthwhile to demonstrate how it supports your child’s individual needs and progress.
• A well-trained aide at school, supervised by the BCBA, is crucial for data collection, skill teaching, and prompt fading.

3. Regional Center: Payor of Last Resort

• Regional Centers are nonprofit organizations in California that coordinate services for individuals with developmental disabilities throughout their lives.
• Unlike school districts, the Regional Center is for life- from the womb to the tomb.
• Regional Centers step in when health insurance or the school district declines funding.
• It’s important to keep records of all communication with other funding sources in case you need to seek support from the Regional Center as a last resort.