Early Intervention and ABA in North Carolina
Get your child under 3 evaluated fast through North Carolina's Part C program, no diagnosis needed.
Start with Part C, Not Insurance
If your child is under 3 and you suspect a delay, Part C early intervention is the fastest door. It is federally required in every state, and you do not need an autism diagnosis to ask for an evaluation. In North Carolina, this program is run through the state's Part C system.
Part C and insurance-funded ABA are separate systems. You can use them in sequence or at the same time. Many families start with Part C for immediate help while they sort out an ABA provider through insurance.
Request an Evaluation in Writing
To start, contact your local Part C agency. In North Carolina, this is typically your county's Children's Developmental Services Agency (CDSA). You can call or write to request an evaluation. Putting it in writing creates a paper trail and a clear date.
Your request should include your child's name, birth date, and your concerns. You do not need a doctor's referral. The agency must respond within a set timeline, usually 45 days from referral to the evaluation and, if eligible, the development of an IFSP.
What an IFSP Is
If your child qualifies, you will work with a team to create an Individualized Family Service Plan, or IFSP. This is a written plan that lists your child's strengths and needs, the services they will get, and the goals you want to work toward.
The IFSP is family-centered. It includes your concerns and priorities, not just your child's delays. You will review and update it every six months.
Services at Home or in the Community
Part C services happen where your child naturally spends time. That means your home, a daycare, or a community playgroup. A service coordinator will help schedule visits.
Typical services include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and developmental intervention. The frequency depends on your child's needs, often ranging from weekly to monthly. You are an active participant in every session, learning strategies to use between visits.
Cost: Free or Sliding Scale
Part C is free for evaluation and service coordination. For ongoing services, North Carolina uses a sliding scale based on your income and family size. Some families pay nothing; others pay a modest fee per session.
Your insurance may be billed for some services, but you cannot be denied services if you cannot pay. Ask your service coordinator about the sliding scale and what you can expect.
Transition at Age 3
Part C ends on your child's third birthday. At least 90 days before that, your service coordinator will help plan the transition to school-district services. This is a different system under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part B.
Your local school district will evaluate your child for an Individualized Education Program (IEP). If they qualify, they may receive preschool special education services. This transition is not automatic; you must participate and advocate for your child.
How ABA Fits In
ABA therapy is usually covered by insurance, but not through Part C. If you want ABA, you will need to go through your health plan. In North Carolina, state law requires many insurance plans to cover ABA for autism, but this only applies to fully insured plans. Self-funded employer plans are exempt under ERISA, though many still cover ABA voluntarily.
Coverage limits vary widely. Some plans have annual caps, visit limits, or age restrictions. Do not rely on a general number. Call your insurer and ask: 'Does my plan cover ABA for autism? What are the specific limits on hours, visits, or dollar amounts per year?' The plan name is on your member card.
North Carolina listings right now
470 ABA agencies across 57 North Carolina counties.