Virginia Autism and ABA Resources
Virginia Medicaid covers ABA for eligible children, and Northern Virginia, particularly Fairfax, Arlington, and Loudoun counties in the DC suburbs, has one of the highest provider densities on the East Coast. The Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) administers Medicaid, and the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) oversees developmental disability waiver programs. Access is more limited in Southwest Virginia and rural Southside communities.
Medicaid in Virginia
Virginia Medicaid
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 Virginia (ages 0–3)
Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia
If your child is under 3, Virginia families may qualify for free early intervention services through Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia. 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 Virginia's Part C coordinator and program contacts.
Virginia EI contacts (ECTA)Special education in Virginia (ages 3–21)
Virginia 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 Virginia. The U.S. Department of Education's directory links directly to your state's contact.
Virginia special education lead (OSEP)What families in Virginia should know
- •Northern Virginia families have access to providers licensed across Virginia, DC, and Maryland; the broader metro market significantly expands available options
- •Virginia's DD Waiver programs (including the Community Living Waiver) can fund ABA and community supports for eligible individuals; contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) to apply
- •The Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia provides early intervention in all regions and can begin services without a formal autism diagnosis
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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