ABA Provider Shortages in Colorado: Practical Alternatives While You Wait
In short: Colorado families often face long waitlists for ABA therapy due to provider shortages. While you wait, you can explore parent-mediated interventions, early intervention programs like Child Find, school-based supports, and respite care. Medicaid and many private insurers cover these alternatives, and our free matching service can help you find a BCBA-led provider when a spot opens.
Key takeaways
- ABA provider shortages in Colorado are driven by high demand and limited clinician availability; waitlists can last 3-12 months.
- While waiting, pursue parent-mediated ABA training, which is often covered by insurance and can begin quickly.
- Colorado's Early Intervention (Child Find) program offers free evaluations and therapies for children under 3 with developmental concerns.
- School districts provide IEP-based services, including speech, occupational, and behavioral supports, for children aged 3+.
Why Are ABA Provider Shortages in Colorado So Common?
Colorado has seen a sharp rise in the number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), while the supply of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and qualified behavior technicians has not kept pace. According to recent state workforce data, there are roughly 1.5 BCBAs per 100 children with ASD in Colorado, a ratio that leads to long waitlists-often 3 to 12 months-especially in rural areas and the Denver metro region. Contributing factors include low reimbursement rates from some insurers, high burnout among clinicians, and the intensive supervision requirements of ABA therapy (often 10-40 hours per week per child). This shortage means families face tough decisions: delay therapy altogether or seek alternative supports that can still make a difference.
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What to Do While You Wait: Practical Alternatives for Autism Support
Waiting for a spot with an ABA provider doesn't mean you have to wait for progress. Colorado offers several evidence-based or widely used alternatives that can address core challenges like communication, behavior, and daily living skills. Below are the most effective options to consider during this time.
Parent-Mediated Interventions and Training
Parent-mediated interventions teach you, the parent, to use behavioral strategies in everyday routines. Programs like the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) and Project ImPACT are often available through Colorado's Early Intervention system or private providers. These can be covered by Medicaid or commercial insurance and may begin within weeks-not months. Key benefits include: building your confidence, reducing challenging behaviors, and creating consistent support at home. Many BCBA-led providers also offer brief parent coaching sessions while families wait for full therapy. Ask your child's pediatrician or county regional center for parent training resources.
Early Intervention Through Colorado's Child Find Program
For children under 3, Colorado's Early Intervention (EI) program, often called Child Find, provides free developmental evaluations and ongoing therapies (speech, occupational, physical) through local regional centers. While EI is not ABA, it can address foundational skills like communication, motor functioning, and play. Services are provided in your home or community and are typically covered by Colorado's Medicaid (Health First Colorado) or private insurance. To start, contact your county's regional center. You do not need a diagnosis; simply a concern about development.
School-Based Supports for Children Aged 3 and Up
Once your child turns 3, they may qualify for services through your local school district. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), districts must provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment. This can include specialized instruction, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral supports through an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Some Colorado schools employ BCBAs or behavior specialists. While school supports are not a replacement for intensive ABA, they can provide structured intervention and reduce waitlist pressure. Request an evaluation from your school district's special education department in writing-timelines are legally mandated.
Respite Care and Community-Based Programs
Caring for a child on the autism spectrum without adequate therapy can be exhausting. Respite care gives you temporary relief and can prevent burnout. Colorado's Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) waiver, administered through regional centers, offers respite hours for families meeting eligibility criteria. Additionally, many local organizations (such as the Autism Community Store in Denver, Rocky Mountain Autism Center, or your local recreation center) offer social skills groups, sensory-friendly activities, and peer mentoring. These are often lower cost and can help your child build connections while waiting for ABA. Check your county's website for listings.
Insurance and Cost Strategies to Avoid Gaps in Care
Navigating insurance while on a waitlist can feel overwhelming, but there are steps to maximize coverage and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Understanding Your Benefits for ABA and Alternatives
Colorado law requires most private insurers and state employee health plans to cover autism treatments, including ABA, under the Autism Care Benefit (Colorado Revised Statute 10-16-104). This benefit typically covers applied behavior analysis up to a $34,000 annual cap for children under 19. Medicaid (Health First Colorado) also covers ABA for eligible children, often with no cap. While on a waitlist, check if your plan covers parent training, early intervention, or respite-many do. Call the customer service number on your insurance card and ask specifically about coverage for parent-mediated ABA, counseling, and developmental therapies.
Sliding Scale and Community Resources
If you face a high deductible or no coverage, consider providers offering sliding scale fees. Organizations like the JFK Partners at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus offer low-cost or free workshops and parent training. The Autism Society of Colorado maintains a list of financial assistance programs and grants. Additionally, some local recreation centers and libraries run free or low-cost social skills programs for children with special needs. Your best first step is to contact your county's Community Centered Board (CCB)-the entry point for disability services in Colorado-to explore all options.
🔗 Related reading: Combining ABA, Speech & OT in NC: A Family Guide · Nearby ABA Therapy
Mistakes to Avoid While on the Waitlist
Make the most of your waiting period by steering clear of these common pitfalls.
- Waiting passively: Don't just wait for a call. Contact multiple providers, ask about cancellation lists, and follow up regularly. Use our free matching service to find vetted BCBA-led providers-they can advise on next steps even before a spot opens.
- Ignoring school or early intervention: Even if you hope for ABA, starting with an IEP or EI services can build a foundation for later therapy. Delaying any intervention can mean missed opportunities for progress.
- Overlooking parent training: Many insurers cover parent-mediated training without a lengthy wait. This can be one of the most impactful things you do during the wait.
- Burning out alone: Caring for a child with autism is demanding. Seek support groups (online or in-person) through the Autism Society of Colorado or local parent groups. Taking care of yourself is vital for your child's success.
How to Prepare for When a Spot Opens
You can take proactive steps now to ensure a smooth transition into ABA therapy when a provider is available.
- Collect records: Gather your child's evaluation reports, IEP if applicable, medical history, and insurance information. This saves time when you get matched.
- Complete paperwork: Some providers share intake forms in advance. Fill them out as soon as you can.
- Observe and track: Keep a log of your child's behaviors, strengths, and challenges. This helps the BCBA design a personalized plan quickly.
- Prepare your home: Consider dedicating a small, distraction-free area for therapy sessions. Many ABA providers conduct therapy in-home.
- Stay on the list: Continue to check in with providers or our service periodically. Waitlists can move faster than expected.
How Our Free Service Helps You Find a BCBA-Led Provider in Colorado
Our matching service-available at Local ABA Therapy-is specifically designed to help families in Colorado navigate provider shortages. We work with a network of vetted, BCBA-led clinics and individual providers who accept both private insurance and Health First Colorado (Medicaid). When you complete a brief online form, we match you with providers that have current openings or shorter waitlists based on your location, insurance plan, and your child's needs. You get direct access to providers who are actively accepting new clients, and our service is always free to families. Because we stay up to date on availability, we can often help you shorten your wait-or connect you with alternative supports while you wait. Start today and take the next step toward quality autism care.