How Much Does ABA Therapy Cost?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a proven, evidence-based approach to helping children and adults, especially those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), improve essential life skills, reduce problematic behaviors, and increase independence. It is widely recognized as one of the most effective forms of treatment for autism.

Yes, ABA Therapy is Covered by Insurance

The cost of ABA therapy is a major concern for many families, but the good news is that insurance coverage for ABA therapy has significantly improved in recent years. Thanks to advocacy efforts and legislation, many states in the U.S. now mandate insurance coverage for ABA therapy for individuals with autism. Here’s how insurance can help alleviate the financial burden:

1. Autism Insurance Mandates: As of 2024, all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia have passed legislation requiring insurance companies to cover ABA therapy for individuals with autism. These mandates ensure that families have access to the care their children need without being overwhelmed by out-of-pocket expenses. However, the specifics of these mandates can vary from state to state, including the amount of coverage provided and any age or benefit limits. 
2. Medicaid Coverage: Medicaid, the federal and state health insurance program for low-income individuals, also covers ABA therapy in many states. Medicaid coverage for ABA therapy can make services more affordable for families who qualify. Each state’s Medicaid program may have different rules regarding the age limits, service hours, and approval process for ABA therapy. 
3. Private Insurance: Many private insurance plans now cover ABA therapy, but it’s essential to verify the details of your policy. Some plans may require a diagnosis of autism from a licensed professional, prior authorization, or proof that ABA therapy is medically necessary. Additionally, families should be aware of any copayments, deductibles, or coverage limits that may apply to their insurance plan. 
4. Employer-Sponsored Plans: Employers may offer health insurance plans that include coverage for ABA therapy. It’s important for families to review their employer-sponsored insurance plan to determine whether ABA therapy is covered and what steps are necessary to access those benefits. 
5. Out-of-Pocket Costs: Even with insurance coverage, families may still face some out-of-pocket expenses. These could include copays for each therapy session, coinsurance, or meeting the deductible before insurance coverage kicks in. Families should also consider whether their insurance plan has annual or lifetime limits on the amount of ABA therapy covered, as this could affect long-term treatment affordability. 
6. Financial Assistance Programs: In addition to insurance, families can explore other financial assistance options. Some ABA therapy providers offer payment plans, sliding scale fees based on income, or scholarships to help reduce the cost. Nonprofit organizations and community resources may also provide grants or financial aid to help families access ABA therapy.

Families with commercial insurance will need to cover their patient responsibility according to the terms of their insurance policy. Double Care ABA is happy to help clients understand what their patient responsibility will be in clear terms so you know exactly what to expect.

Ok, But How Much Would ABA Therapy Cost if Insurance Didn’t Pay for It?

If you’re still curious as to the full costs of ABA therapy that you would have to pay without insurance coverage, read on!

Factors Influencing the Cost of ABA Therapy

The cost of ABA therapy can vary greatly depending on several factors. Understanding these variables can help families anticipate what to expect financially and make more informed decisions regarding their child’s treatment plan.

1. Location: The geographic area where therapy is provided plays a significant role in determining the cost. ABA therapy services in larger cities or states with a high cost of living tend to be more expensive than in rural areas or regions with lower costs of living. This is due to differences in overhead expenses such as rent, staff salaries, and operational costs. 
2. Therapist Qualifications: The level of expertise and experience of the ABA provider also impacts the cost. Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), who hold a master’s or doctoral degree and are responsible for creating and supervising treatment plans, typically charge higher rates than Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), who implement the therapy under the BCBA’s supervision. Services provided by highly experienced and specialized BCBAs may come with a premium due to their advanced skill set. 
3. Intensity and Frequency of Treatment: The number of hours per week that a child requires therapy is another critical factor. ABA therapy programs are tailored to the unique needs of each individual, and some may require intensive therapy (30-40 hours per week), while others may benefit from fewer hours (10-20 hours per week). The more hours of therapy a child needs, the higher the overall cost will be. In some cases, children may start with a high level of intensity and gradually reduce therapy hours as progress is made. 
4. In-Home vs. Clinic-Based Therapy: Whether the therapy is provided at home or in a clinic can affect the cost. In-home therapy tends to be more expensive than clinic-based therapy due to travel expenses, the convenience of receiving services at home, and potential variations in staffing. Clinic-based therapy, on the other hand, may offer group sessions or shared services, which can sometimes reduce costs. 
5. Duration of Therapy: ABA therapy is often a long-term commitment, and the total cost will depend on the duration of the therapy. Some individuals may require treatment for several years, especially those who start ABA therapy at a young age. While the upfront costs may seem high, the long-term benefits often outweigh the financial investment by helping individuals develop essential life skills and reducing the need for more intensive interventions later in life. 
6. Customization of Treatment Plans: ABA therapy is highly individualized, meaning the treatment plan is customized to meet the specific needs and goals of each child. This personalized approach can increase costs because the BCBA must spend time assessing the child, developing a tailored treatment plan, and continually monitoring progress. However, the customized nature of ABA therapy is also what makes it so effective for many children with autism. 
7. Additional Services: Some ABA therapy programs may include additional services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or social skills training. These services can enhance the overall effectiveness of the treatment but may also increase the total cost of care. Families should carefully review what services are included in the therapy package and what additional services, if any, might be needed. 

Average Costs of ABA Therapy

Because ABA therapy is so individualized, the cost can vary widely. However, some general figures can help families estimate the expenses involved:

• Hourly Rates: The cost of ABA therapy is typically billed hourly. The rates for BCBAs can range from $100 to $250 per hour, depending on location and experience. RBTs or therapists working under the BCBA may charge between $40 and $75 per hour. 
• Weekly Costs: For children requiring 10-20 hours of therapy per week, the weekly cost can range from $700 to $1,800. For children who need more intensive therapy, such as 30-40 hours per week, the weekly costs can climb to $2,100 to $3,600. 
• Annual Costs: The annual cost of ABA therapy can range from $30,000 to $190,000 or more, depending on the number of hours of therapy and the length of treatment required. While this may seem daunting, many families can offset a significant portion of the cost through insurance coverage or other financial assistance programs. 

Weighing the Long-Term Value of ABA Therapy

While the cost of ABA therapy may seem high, it’s essential to consider the long-term value of this intervention. ABA therapy has been shown to produce significant improvements in communication, social skills, self-care, and behavior management, helping individuals with autism lead more independent and fulfilling lives. These improvements can reduce the need for more intensive and costly services later in life, such as special education or residential care.Moreover, the benefits of ABA therapy extend beyond the individual receiving treatment. Families often report improvements in their overall quality of life as they learn strategies for managing challenging behaviors, enhancing communication with their child, and fostering positive interactions. The long-term benefits of ABA therapy can be transformative for both the individual and their family, making the financial investment worthwhile.

How Double Care ABA Therapy Can Help

Navigating the costs of ABA therapy can be challenging, but families don’t have to do it alone. At Double Care ABA, we are committed to providing high-quality in-home ABA therapy that is both accessible and affordable. Our team of highly trained Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) works closely with families to create personalized treatment plans that meet the unique needs of each child. We also assist families in understanding their insurance coverage and exploring financial options to ensure that your child receives the care they deserve. With Double Care ABA, you can trust that your child’s future is in capable hands, and we are here to support you every step of the way.