How much does ABA therapy cost?
How much does ABA therapy cost?
$5,200 – $15,600 cost per month (without insurance / assistance)
$62,000 – $187,000 cost per year (without insurance / assistance)
ABA therapy cost
ABA therapy costs $100 to $150 per hour without insurance. This translates to $5,200 to $15,600 per month and $62,000 to $187,000 per year for 20 to 30 hours of therapy per week, which is typical for many children with autism. Some insurance plans, state programs, and grants cover the cost of ABA therapy.
ABA therapy is intended to help individuals with developmental challenges, particularly autism, learn new skills and improve their behavior in a supportive environment.
| Timeframe | Average cost* (without insurance) |
|---|---|
| Per week | $1,200 – $3,600 |
| Per month | $5,200 – $15,600 |
| Per year | $62,000 – $187,000 |
*For 20 to 30 hours per week of ABA therapy
What affects the cost of ABA therapy?
Several factors impact the cost of ABA therapy:
Autism severity: Children with severe autism may require 40 hours per week of ABA therapy, resulting in costs of up to $250,000 per year without insurance. In addition, the more severe the autism, the more additional in-home and out-of-home care services may be needed.
Therapy hours per week: The number of weekly therapy hours varies based on individual needs. Mild cases might require 10 to 15 hours per week, while moderate cases typically need 20 to 30 hours. For severe cases, therapists often recommend 30 to 40 hours of weekly therapy.
Therapist's experience & qualifications: Rates vary based on the therapist's education level, certification status, years of experience, and professional credentials.
Geographic location: Therapists in urban areas and regions with a higher cost of living typically command higher rates.
Services needed: Families may need to budget for additional in-home therapy services, center-based treatment, school-based interventions, and supplementary therapies like speech or occupational therapy. Speech therapy costs $100 to $250 per session on its own.
How to pay for ABA therapy
Understanding how to pay for ABA therapy is essential for families exploring treatment options for autism. While ABA can be more expensive than other therapies, various funding sources—such as health insurance, state programs, and grants—can help offset expenses.
Health insurance
Most private insurance plans now cover ABA therapy due to state mandates, though coverage varies by provider. When using insurance, verify the pre-authorization requirements, understand your copays and deductibles, and confirm which providers are in-network.
State-funded ABA therapy
Many states provide funding for ABA therapy through early intervention programs, state disability services, autism-specific initiatives, and developmental disability programs. These programs can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for families.
School-funded ABA therapy
Public schools have become increasingly involved in providing ABA services. Many schools now offer school-based ABA services, specialized education programs, behavioral support, and related therapeutic services as part of their special education programs.
Grants and scholarships
Financial assistance is also available through various organizations and programs. Autism-specific foundations, local nonprofit organizations, national advocacy groups, and private foundations often provide grants and scholarships to help families access ABA therapy.
Medicaid
Many state Medicaid programs cover ABA therapy through state plan benefits, waiver programs, and Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefits. Coverage details vary by state, so it's important to check your local Medicaid regulations.
Private payment
For families paying privately for ABA therapy, several options can help manage costs. Many providers offer payment plans or sliding scale fees based on income. Health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) can also be used to pay for ABA therapy with pre-tax dollars, providing some financial relief.
What is ABA therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is an evidence-based treatment that focuses on improving specific behaviors in individuals with autism. The therapy uses a combination of techniques centered on positive reinforcement to develop new skills, shape and refine behaviors, improve communication, enhance social skills, and support learning and development.
How does ABA therapy work?
ABA therapy is a flexible treatment approach that can be adapted to meet the individual's needs and goals. The therapy process typically includes these steps:
Assessment: The therapist conducts an initial assessment to identify the individual's strengths, areas for improvement, and specific behaviors to target.
Goal setting & treatment plan development: The therapist sets measurable and realistic goals and develops a customized treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs.
Therapy sessions: Through regular sessions involving positive reinforcement, the therapist works with the individual to develop and improve their skills and behaviors.
Progress monitoring & plan adjustments: The therapist measures the individual's progress during each session, identifies areas that need improvement, and fine-tunes the treatment plan as needed.
Generalization & maintenance: The ultimate goal of ABA therapy is for individuals to learn how to apply the skills in various settings, such as home, school, and the community. The therapist works to help the individual transfer skills to different environments and ensure they're maintained long-term.
Parents are often included in ABA therapy to ensure the strategies used in sessions are reinforced at home.
Benefits of ABA therapy
ABA therapy helps children with autism develop the skills they need to interact with others and communicate more effectively. ABA therapy can help your child:
Improve language and communication skills
Improve social skills and make friends
Cope better with emotions and express feelings constructively
Decrease problem behaviors
Learn essential life skills, like getting dressed, using the bathroom, and eating
Become more independent
Prepare for school and other real-world experiences
ABA therapy also helps the parents of children with autism learn how to interact more effectively with their child.
FAQs about ABA therapy
Is ABA therapy harmful or abusive?
Modern ABA therapy has evolved significantly from its historical roots, now emphasizing positive reinforcement and respect for the individual. Contemporary approaches focus on ethical treatment that considers individual needs and preferences. Therapists work to create positive skill development opportunities while maintaining strong family involvement and encouraging child-led learning experiences.
Does ABA therapy work?
Research supports the effectiveness of ABA therapy. Studies have shown significant improvements in participants' communication skills, social abilities, and learning capabilities. Many individuals also show reduced challenging behaviors and increased independence after treatment. However, outcomes vary based on individual factors and the quality of therapy provided.
Is ABA therapy covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover ABA therapy, but coverage depends on state requirements and the individual plan details. Some states mandate coverage for ABA therapy, while others may have more limited requirements.
It's essential to review your specific insurance policy and speak with your provider to understand your coverage options.
Is ABA therapy only for autism?
While ABA therapy is most often used to help individuals with autism, its principles and techniques can benefit individuals with other conditions. The therapy has shown promise for those with developmental delays, behavioral challenges, learning disabilities, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other conditions.
How long does ABA therapy last?
The duration of ABA therapy depends on the individual's needs, treatment goals, progress rate, support system, and available resources. Typical programs last 1 to 3 years, though some children may require longer-term support. ABA therapists regularly evaluate and adjust the treatment intensity and duration based on progress and ongoing needs.
Where to find ABA therapy near you
When searching for an ABA therapist, it's important to choose someone with the right experience who also makes your child feel safe and comfortable. Follow these tips to help you find the best ABA therapy near you:
Look for a therapist or psychologist who is a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) or registered behavior technician (RBT).
Ask your child's pediatrician for recommendations.
Read reviews of ABA therapists on Thervo and Google to see what their past clients say about them.
Ask the therapist about their experience specifically working with children with autism.
Choose a therapist who has a good rapport with your child.
Questions to ask an ABA therapist
Ask ABA therapists these important questions to ensure you choose the one who is the best fit for your child:
What are your credentials and experience as an ABA therapist?
How do you develop treatment plans?
How do you measure progress?
How do you handle behavioral challenges?
What is your approach to parent training?
Do you accept my insurance?
What are your total costs and fees?
What is your cancellation policy?
How do you maintain communication with families?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.