Navigating the world of health insurance and autism therapy can feel overwhelming, especially for military families who are already balancing a demanding lifestyle. If you’re a parent of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and covered by TRICARE, you may have many questions about how to access the right care—especially Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.
At Able Kids, we work closely with TRICARE and military families every day. To help you feel more confident and informed, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions we hear about TRICARE and ABA therapy.
What is ABA Therapy, and How Does It Help Children With Autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a widely recognized and evidence-based approach to helping children with autism develop critical life skills. ABA therapy focuses on understanding behavior and teaching positive, functional behaviors through structured techniques and reinforcement.
ABA can support children in areas such as:
- Communication and language
- Social skills
- Self-help and daily living skills
- Emotional regulation
- Reducing problem behaviors
Learn more about ABA therapy at Able Kids and how we personalize treatment to fit each child’s unique needs.
Does TRICARE Cover ABA Therapy?
Yes! TRICARE covers ABA therapy through its Autism Care Demonstration (ACD) program. This initiative ensures that military families with children diagnosed with autism have access to high-quality, medically necessary ABA therapy.
TRICARE’s ABA coverage includes:
- Diagnostic evaluations
- ABA assessments by a BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst)
- One-on-one therapy with a behavior technician
- Parent training and guidance
- Treatment planning and progress monitoring
Coverage is available through TRICARE Prime, Select, and other TRICARE plans, as long as the child meets the eligibility requirements under the ACD.
Is My Child Eligible for ABA Therapy Through TRICARE?
To be eligible for TRICARE-covered ABA therapy, your child must:
- Have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from a TRICARE-authorized provider such as a developmental pediatrician, neurologist, or psychologist.
- Be enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) if you’re on active duty.
- Be registered in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS).
Once those requirements are met, you can request authorization for ABA services.
How Do I Start the Process?
At Able Kids, we’re happy to walk you through each step. But here’s a quick breakdown of how to get started with ABA therapy through TRICARE:
- Obtain an official ASD diagnosis from a TRICARE-authorized provider.
- Contact your TRICARE regional contractor (like Humana Military or Health Net Federal Services) to request authorization.
- Get an initial ABA assessment from a TRICARE-authorized BCBA.
- Begin therapy sessions once your authorization is approved.
We offer seamless onboarding and support to make sure your family has everything needed for a smooth start.
Will I Have to Pay Out of Pocket for ABA Therapy?
TRICARE generally covers most or all of the costs associated with ABA therapy. However, there may be small copayments or cost-shares depending on your specific TRICARE plan and sponsor status.
For example:
- Active duty families typically pay nothing out of pocket.
- Retired military families may have modest copayments based on their plan type (Prime vs. Select).
It’s always best to check with your regional contractor or contact us at Able Kids for help understanding your individual cost responsibilities.
How Often Will My Child Receive Therapy?
The frequency and duration of ABA therapy sessions are determined by your child’s needs, as identified during the initial assessment. A typical therapy plan might involve:
- 10 to 30 hours per week of direct therapy
- Parent training sessions
- Ongoing evaluations and adjustments to the treatment plan
At Able Kids, our BCBAs work closely with each family to create a personalized plan and ensure therapy is both effective and manageable.
What Happens If We Move or Are Reassigned?
We know that relocation is part of military life. The good news is that TRICARE is a nationwide program, and your child’s ABA coverage moves with you.
Here’s what to do if you’re relocating:
- Notify your current ABA provider and TRICARE regional contractor.
- Coordinate with a new TRICARE-authorized provider in your next location.
- Transfer therapy records and assessments to maintain continuity of care.
Able Kids can help you plan and manage this transition, and if we don’t have a clinic in your new location, we’ll help connect you with a trusted provider.
Is ABA Therapy Only for Young Children?
While early intervention is key, ABA therapy can benefit individuals with autism at many stages of development—including teens. TRICARE covers ABA therapy for eligible beneficiaries from early childhood through adolescence and, in some cases, young adulthood.
Whether your child needs help with language development or transitioning to independent living, ABA therapy can play an important role in building skills for the future.
Do I Need a Referral from My Primary Care Manager (PCM)?
No, you don’t need a referral from your PCM to begin the ABA process under the Autism Care Demonstration. However, you do need:
- A valid autism diagnosis from a qualified provider
- Authorization from your regional TRICARE contractor
This helps streamline access to care and reduces delays in starting therapy.
What’s the Role of Parents in ABA Therapy?
TRICARE places a strong emphasis on parent involvement—and so do we.
Through parent training, caregivers learn strategies to:
- Reinforce positive behaviors at home
- Promote skill generalization in daily routines
- Understand how to respond effectively to challenging behaviors
The more engaged and informed the family is, the more impactful the therapy can be for the child.
Why Choose Able Kids for TRICARE ABA Therapy?
Able Kids is a TRICARE-authorized provider with a deep understanding of military families and their unique needs. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experienced BCBAs and compassionate therapists
- Expertise in working with TRICARE and the ACD
- Personalized, play-based therapy
- Flexible scheduling and transition support during relocations
- A family-centered approach that values collaboration
We’ve helped hundreds of military families access high-quality ABA therapy and we’re here to support yours, too.
Still Have Questions?
That’s what we’re here for. At Able Kids, we’re committed to empowering families with the information and support they need to make the best choices for their child’s development.
If you have questions about your TRICARE coverage or want to get started with ABA therapy, contact our team today. We’re happy to help you understand your options, navigate the paperwork, and connect you with compassionate, expert care.
Supporting military families is part of who we are. At Able Kids, we’re honored to serve those who serve by delivering meaningful ABA therapy that makes a difference. Let’s take the next step together.
