ABA Therapy in California
Your complete guide to understanding ABA therapy services, insurance coverage, provider requirements, and resources in California.
Last updated: January 2026
Private Insurance
California enacted autism insurance legislation in 2010-2017. Most private health insurance plans are required to cover ABA therapy as a treatment for autism spectrum disorder. Coverage details, including age limits and hour caps, vary by plan.
Medicaid
California Medicaid covers ABA therapy for eligible children with autism under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit. Many states also have Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that cover autism services for individuals who meet specific criteria.
BCBA Licensure
BCBAs must hold state licensure in addition to BACB certification. When choosing an ABA provider in California, verify that BCBAs hold current certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
Supervision Requirements
Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) must work under the supervision of a certified BCBA. Industry standards recommend at least 10-15% BCBA supervision of direct therapy hours. Quality programs often exceed this minimum.
Verify Credentials
You can verify BCBA and RBT credentials on the BACB certificant registry. This free tool confirms current certification status.
Birth to 3 Years
California's Early Intervention program provides services to infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities. Services are provided at no cost to families and may include developmental therapies. Contact your local Early Intervention office for evaluation.
Ages 3-21 (School-Based)
Children ages 3-21 may receive special education services through the public school system under IDEA. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) can include autism-related services. School-based services supplement but typically don't replace private ABA therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, California has an autism insurance mandate that requires most private health insurance plans to cover ABA therapy for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Coverage requirements vary by plan type. California Medicaid also covers ABA therapy under EPSDT for eligible children.
Use our directory to search for ABA therapy providers in California. You can filter by city, insurance accepted, and service type (in-home, center-based, telehealth). We have providers listed across California to help you find care close to home.
California requires BCBAs to hold state licensure in addition to national certification through the BACB. Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) must work under BCBA supervision. Always verify your provider's credentials.
Yes, California Medicaid covers ABA therapy for children with autism under the EPSDT benefit. Some individuals may also qualify for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs. Contact your local Medicaid office for eligibility information.
Wait times for ABA therapy in California vary by location and provider. High-demand areas may have waits of 3-12 months. We recommend contacting multiple providers and getting on several waitlists. Some areas of California have more immediate availability.
Additional Resources
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Search our directory of verified providers across California.