Pennsylvania Autism and ABA Resources
Pennsylvania Medical Assistance covers ABA for eligible children, and Pennsylvania is home to ASERT (Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training), a statewide collaborative that provides free family training, consultation, and a provider directory. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have large provider markets, and the Bureau of Autism Services (BAS) within the Pennsylvania DHS administers autism-specific programs statewide.
Medicaid in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Medical Assistance
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 Pennsylvania (ages 0–3)
Early Intervention Program
If your child is under 3, Pennsylvania families may qualify for free early intervention services through Early Intervention Program. 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 Pennsylvania's Part C coordinator and program contacts.
Pennsylvania EI contacts (ECTA)Special education in Pennsylvania (ages 3–21)
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania. The U.S. Department of Education's directory links directly to your state's contact.
Pennsylvania special education lead (OSEP)What families in Pennsylvania should know
- •ASERT (asertpa.com) provides free consultation, workshops, and a statewide provider directory, one of the most practical starting points for any Pennsylvania family
- •Pennsylvania's Bureau of Autism Services administers autism-specific adult waiver programs and can be a resource for families thinking about long-term planning
- •Pennsylvania Medicaid ABA is covered under the HealthChoices managed care system; verify your managed care plan and contact their behavioral health department for prior authorization
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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