Colorado Autism and ABA Resources
Health First Colorado covers ABA for eligible children, and the Denver metro area has a solid concentration of BCBA-certified providers. Colorado's Developmental Disability Services (DDS) administers waiver programs that can fund ongoing support beyond standard Medicaid. Access drops sharply in rural areas, particularly in the San Luis Valley and western slope communities.
Medicaid in Colorado
Health First Colorado
Covers medically necessary ABA for eligible children under 21 through the federal EPSDT benefit. Prior authorization is typically required; ask your provider's intake team to help verify your child's benefits.
Early intervention in Colorado (ages 0–3)
Early Intervention Colorado
If your child is under 3, Colorado families may qualify for free early intervention services through Early Intervention Colorado. Services can include speech therapy, developmental support, and behavior support at no cost, even before a formal diagnosis. The ECTA Center maintains a verified directory of Colorado's Part C coordinator and program contacts.
Colorado EI contacts (ECTA)Special education in Colorado (ages 3–21)
Colorado OSEP State Lead
Once your child turns 3, services shift from early intervention to the public school system under IDEA Part B. Your state's OSEP State Lead oversees special education implementation, including IEPs and school-based support, across Colorado. The U.S. Department of Education's directory links directly to your state's contact.
Colorado special education lead (OSEP)What families in Colorado should know
- •Colorado's SLS (Supported Living Services) and Children's Extensive Support waivers can fund ABA and other supports for eligible children; contact your county DDS office about current intake
- •The Arc Chapters across Colorado and The Arc of Colorado provide free navigation help for families working through waiver programs and local services
- •Denver metro families have access to a competitive market of ABA agencies; compare BCBA supervision ratios and caseloads when evaluating providers
Need the BCBA registry, Autism Speaks grants, or local chapters?
These tools work for every state and are on the main resources page.
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Practice skills at home while you wait
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