If you’re a military family navigating the world of autism treatment, you may be asking: Does Tricare cover ABA therapy? The answer is yes—and that coverage can open the door to life-changing support for your child. At Able Kids, we specialize in providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy that is tailored to your child’s unique needs. And we’re proud to work closely with Tricare families to ensure access to high-quality, compassionate care.
Here’s what you need to know about Tricare’s coverage of ABA therapy, and how Able Kids can help your family thrive.
What Is ABA Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research-based therapy designed to help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) build essential life skills, from communication and socialization to managing emotions and behaviors. It is one of the most widely recommended and scientifically supported treatments for children on the autism spectrum.
ABA therapy uses structured techniques based on learning theory to improve specific behaviors. Sessions are highly individualized, allowing therapists to focus on each child’s strengths, challenges, and goals.
Tricare Covers ABA Therapy – Here’s How It Works
Tricare—the healthcare program for active duty service members, retirees, and their families—does cover ABA therapy for children diagnosed with ASD. Coverage is offered through the Comprehensive Autism Care Demonstration (ACD), which ensures eligible beneficiaries have access to effective autism services, including ABA.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to access Tricare-covered ABA therapy:
- An official autism diagnosis from a Tricare-authorized provider
- Enrollment in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) (for active-duty families)
- Referral and authorization from your Tricare Primary Care Manager (PCM)
- Continued reassessments every 2 years and clinical reviews every 6 months
Once your child is enrolled in the ACD program, Tricare will cover most ABA therapy services, including assessments, treatment planning, and one-on-one therapy with a trained behavior technician under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Why Choose Able Kids for ABA Therapy?
At Able Kids, we understand the unique challenges and strengths of military families. We’ve helped many Tricare-covered families through the process of accessing ABA services, and we know how to make the experience smoother for both parents and children.
Here’s how we stand apart:
- Personalized Treatment Plans
Every child with autism is different. That’s why we tailor each ABA program based on a comprehensive assessment and family input. Whether your child is working on verbal skills, social interaction, or daily routines, our therapy is designed to meet them where they are and help them move forward—step by step.
- Experienced, Tricare-Savvy Team
We know the ins and outs of Tricare’s authorization process. From your first call to your child’s first session, we’ll guide you through the paperwork, eligibility requirements, and scheduling so you’re never left in the dark.
- Family-Focused Support
We believe parents and caregivers are essential partners in their child’s development. We provide regular updates, training, and resources so that you feel confident reinforcing progress at home.
- Flexible Scheduling & Convenient Locations
We offer center-based ABA therapy in warm, kid-friendly environments that support focus and learning. Our flexible scheduling options work around your family’s lifestyle—especially important for military families managing deployments, relocations, or transitions.
Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think
If you’re interested in starting ABA therapy through Tricare, here’s what the process typically looks like:
- Diagnosis: If your child hasn’t already been diagnosed with autism by a Tricare-authorized provider, we can help you get connected.
- Referral: Your PCM will need to submit a referral to Tricare for ABA therapy.
- Assessment: Once approved, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst from Able Kids will conduct a comprehensive assessment.
- Treatment Plan: We’ll create a customized treatment plan and schedule sessions once approved.
- Ongoing Support: We’ll handle reauthorizations, progress tracking, and communication with Tricare to keep services running smoothly.
Let Able Kids Be Your Partner in Progress
Raising a child with autism comes with unique joys and challenges. For military families, the added stress of frequent moves or changes in duty stations can make continuity of care difficult—but you’re not in this alone. At Able Kids, we provide the consistent, compassionate support your child needs to grow and succeed—whether you’re stationed here for a few years or planning a longer stay.
If you have Tricare and a child diagnosed with autism, ABA therapy is within reach. Let us help you unlock your child’s potential with personalized therapy backed by science—and delivered with heart.
Contact Able Kids today for a free consultation or to learn more about our services. We’re here to support your child’s journey—every step of the way.
