Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does ABA Therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Assessment | $1,000 – $2,000 | $100 – $500 |
| Individual Session (per hour) | $120 – $250 | $0 – $50 |
| Group Session (per hour) | $50 – $100 | $0 – $25 |
| Parent Training | $100 – $200 | $0 – $40 |
CPT/ADA Code: 97153
What Affects the Cost
- Provider credentials and experience
- In-person vs. telehealth sessions
- Session length (30, 45, or 60 minutes)
- In-network vs. out-of-network
- Geographic location (major cities cost more)
- Type of therapy or treatment approach
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Most states mandate autism coverage; copay $0-$50
Under the ACA and Mental Health Parity Act, insurance must cover mental health treatment at the same level as physical health. In-network copays are $20-$75 per session. Out-of-network providers may be reimbursed at 50-70%. Many plans now cover telehealth therapy at $0 copay.
How to Save Money
- Online therapy platforms (BetterHelp, Talkspace) cost $60-$100/session
- Open Path Collective: $30-$80/session ($65 lifetime membership)
- Sliding-scale therapists adjust fees based on income
- University training clinics offer $10-$30/session
- Community mental health centers provide low-cost services
- Ask about out-of-network reimbursement from your insurance
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Most states mandate autism coverage. Commercial plans, Medicaid (all states for under 21), and many employer plans cover ABA. TRICARE covers it for military families.
Typically 20-40 hours/week for intensive programs. Some children need 10-20 hours. BCBAs create individualized plans based on needs.
ABA is the gold-standard evidence-based treatment for autism. It uses positive reinforcement to teach skills and reduce challenging behaviors. Sessions are led by trained therapists (RBTs) supervised by BCBAs.