Early Intervention and ABA in Texas
Get faster help for your child under 3 with Texas ECI, then layer in ABA when you need it.
Start with ECI, Not Insurance
If your child is under 3 and you're worried about development, Texas Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) is your fastest door. It's the state's Part C program, and it's free to request an evaluation. You don't need an autism diagnosis or a doctor's referral.
Insurance-funded ABA is a separate system, and it usually takes longer to start. You can use ECI first, then add ABA later, or run them at the same time. Many families do both.
How to Request an Evaluation
Call or write to your local ECI program and ask for an evaluation. You can find the contact through the Texas Health and Human Services website or by calling 2-1-1. Put your request in writing if you can, and keep a copy.
The evaluation is free and looks at your child's skills in areas like communication, movement, and play. If your child qualifies, you'll get an Individualized Family Service Plan, or IFSP.
What an IFSP Includes
The IFSP is a written plan for your child and your family. It lists goals, the services your child will get, and where they'll happen. You'll review it every six months.
Services are delivered in your home or in community settings like a daycare or park. That's different from clinic-based ABA, and it's designed to fit into your daily life.
Cost and Payment
ECI services are free for children with Medicaid. For other families, there's a sliding scale based on income, and some services may be free. You won't be turned away if you can't pay.
Ask your ECI coordinator about costs before services start. They'll explain what applies to you.
Transition at Age 3
When your child turns 3, ECI ends and services move to your local school district. The district will evaluate your child for special education preschool, which is free and guaranteed under IDEA.
Your ECI team must hold a transition meeting at least 90 days before your child's third birthday. They'll help you connect with the school and share records if you give permission.
If your child needs ABA after 3, that's separate from school services. You'll work with your insurance or Medicaid plan.
Using ABA Alongside ECI
ECI and ABA are different systems, and you can use both. ECI focuses on developmental milestones and family support. ABA focuses on behavior and skill building, often in one-on-one sessions.
Some families start ABA while still in ECI. Others wait until after 3. Both approaches work, and there's no rule against combining them.
For ABA, you'll typically need a diagnosis and a referral from a doctor. Then you'll find a provider and work with your insurance on coverage.
Insurance Coverage for ABA
Texas has an autism insurance mandate, but it only applies to fully insured plans. If your employer self-funds its plan, it's exempt under ERISA, though many still cover ABA. Check your plan documents or call the number on your member card.
Ask your insurer this exact question: 'Does my plan cover applied behavior analysis for autism, and are there any visit or dollar limits?' Limits vary by plan, so get it in writing.
If your child has Medicaid, coverage for medically necessary ABA is available under EPSDT. Your Medicaid plan name is on your member card, and you can call them to find ABA providers.
Texas listings right now
1,231 ABA agencies across 81 Texas counties.