Autism Resources in Aurora, CO: A Guide for Families

TABLE OF CONTENT

Key Takeaways

Aurora families have access to a strong network of autism resources, from diagnostic centers and ABA therapy to school-based support and local nonprofits
Getting an evaluation is the first step — the Child Development Unit at Children's Hospital Colorado is one of the most established starting points in the area
Colorado requires most insurance plans to cover autism diagnosis and treatment, including ABA therapy, which significantly reduces out-of-pocket costs for many families
The Aurora Mental Health & Recovery Walk-in Crisis Clinic at 2206 Victor Street is open 24/7 and available to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis — no appointment needed
Support extends beyond therapy: local organizations like The Arc of Aurora and the Autism Society of Colorado offer advocacy, community connection, and parent support groups

Where to Start With Autism Resources in Aurora

For families in Aurora, navigating autism support often begins with more questions than answers. The city's proximity to Denver means a wide range of services are available, but knowing which step comes first can make the difference between moving forward confidently and feeling stuck.

A practical starting point is to focus on two things: getting the right evaluation for your child's age, and identifying which services are most pressing right now — whether that is therapy, school support, or financial assistance.

Aurora is served by Cherry Creek School District and Aurora Public Schools, both of which provide special education services for eligible students. Alongside public school supports, families have access to private therapy providers, state-funded programs, and community organizations that offer everything from clinical care to peer support.

Getting an Autism Evaluation in Aurora

A formal autism diagnosis is typically the first step toward accessing therapy, school services, and insurance coverage for care. In Aurora and the surrounding area, families have several well-established options for evaluation.

Children's Hospital Colorado — Child Development Unit

The Child Development Unit at Children's Hospital Colorado is one of the most comprehensive diagnostic resources available to Aurora families. Their team conducts developmental evaluations for children at various ages, assessing communication, social development, behavior, and daily living skills. For families who are just beginning the process, this is one of the most trusted starting points in the region.

Early Intervention Colorado (Ages Birth to 3)

For children under three, Early Intervention Colorado provides developmental evaluations and early supports at no cost to families. Parents can refer their child directly — no pediatrician referral is required. If a child qualifies, the program develops an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) built around practical goals and family routines. Even when a formal autism diagnosis is still pending, Early Intervention can begin supports based on developmental needs, which helps avoid delays in care.

Child Find (Ages 3 to 5)

For preschool-aged children, Child Find is the statewide system that evaluates children who may qualify for special education services. Families start by contacting their local school district and requesting an evaluation. If the child qualifies, the district can put preschool supports in place and coordinate related services; often one of the most direct ways to access structured help at this age.

Autism Therapy Options in Aurora

Aurora families have access to a range of therapy options. Most children benefit from a combination of services tailored to their specific developmental profile, communication needs, and daily challenges.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy

ABA is the most widely used, evidence-based therapy for autism. It focuses on building functional skills — communication, daily routines, social interaction, and independence — while reducing behaviors that interfere with learning. Programs are overseen by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and adjusted based on ongoing data and progress.

In Aurora, ABA therapy is available through in-home, in-clinic, and virtual models, depending on the provider and what works best for the child and family. The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD®) has an Aurora-area location and uses a structured ABA model with individualized goals for each child.

Navigating autism support can feel overwhelming. If you'd like help understanding your ABA options in Aurora, we're here to answer questions.

Speech and Occupational Therapy

Speech therapy supports language development, social communication, and — when appropriate — alternative communication methods. Occupational therapy targets sensory regulation, fine motor skills, self-care tasks, and daily living challenges.

These therapies work best when coordinated with ABA goals, so the same communication tools and strategies are practiced consistently across settings — at home, in therapy, and at school.

Mental Health Support

For children and teens dealing with anxiety, emotional regulation challenges, or co-occurring mental health conditions, the Autism & I/DD Counseling Center at Aurora Mental Health & Recovery is a specialized local resource. They offer individual therapy, group therapy, and case management for both youth (ages 6–21) and adults (18+). This center is specifically designed to serve individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities, making it distinct from general mental health clinics.

Crisis support: If your family ever needs immediate help, the Aurora Mental Health & Recovery Walk-in Crisis Clinic is located at 2206 Victor Street, Aurora and is open 24/7. The crisis line is available at 303-617-2300.

Autism Support in Aurora Schools

School-based services are a key part of daily support for many Aurora families. Two school districts serve Aurora — Aurora Public Schools and Cherry Creek School District — and both are required to provide special education services to eligible students.

IEPs and Special Education Services

When a child qualifies for special education, services and accommodations are formalized through an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This document outlines learning goals, classroom supports, behavioral accommodations, and any related services the school will provide.

School-based support may include:

Specialized classroom placements or resource room support
Behavioral supports and sensory accommodations
In-school speech or occupational therapy
Social skills support and transition planning

Families who are unsure where to start can contact their school district's special education office to request an evaluation. The Colorado Department of Education provides statewide guidance on the IEP process and parent rights.

504 Plans

Children who do not qualify for special education may still be eligible for a 504 plan, which provides accommodations in the general education classroom. A 504 is often appropriate when a child can learn in a standard setting but needs supports like extended time, sensory accommodations, or preferential seating. For more detail, see Alpaca's Colorado 504 Plans guide.

Insurance Coverage and Financial Support in Aurora

Paying for autism services is one of the most common concerns for Aurora families. Colorado has strong protections in place, and most families can access a meaningful combination of insurance coverage and supplemental support.

Private Insurance

Colorado law requires most private insurance plans to cover autism diagnosis and treatment, including ABA therapy. Before starting services, families are generally encouraged to:

Confirm whether ABA, speech, and OT are covered benefits
Ask whether prior authorization is required and what documentation is needed
Understand deductibles, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums
Verify whether providers are in-network

Working closely with a provider's intake or billing team often helps families avoid unexpected costs and delays.

Health First Colorado (Medicaid)

Health First Colorado is Colorado's Medicaid program and a major access pathway for families who qualify. It covers a range of autism-related services, including ABA therapy, depending on eligibility and regional provider availability.

Waivers and State Programs

Colorado's waiver and long-term services system can fund supports beyond standard insurance or Medicaid coverage. These programs can be especially relevant for children with higher support needs or families planning for long-term care. Some programs have waitlists, so it is worth starting the process early. The Family Support Services Program (FSSP) provides direct financial assistance to families of members with developmental disabilities, helping cover co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses that insurance does not fully address.

Local Organizations and Community Support in Aurora

Clinical services are one part of autism support. Community connection — peer support, advocacy, and a sense of belonging — matters just as much for many families.

Aurora Mental Health & Recovery

Beyond crisis services, Aurora Mental Health & Recovery provides a wide range of behavioral health supports for individuals with autism and I/DD, including case management and clinical assessments. For families navigating co-occurring mental health needs alongside autism, this is one of Aurora's most comprehensive local resources.

The Arc of Aurora

The Arc of Aurora advocates for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to ensure equal access to community life, services, and opportunities. For families who want support understanding their rights, navigating systems, or connecting with other families, The Arc is a practical and trusted resource.

Autism Society of Colorado

The Autism Society of Colorado serves as a statewide hub for families, offering support groups, community events, and a broad network of information and referrals. For Aurora families looking for peer connection, parent support groups, or local events, ASC is often the most practical starting point.

How to Choose the Right Autism Support in Aurora

Choosing autism resources starts with understanding what your child needs most right now — and what you can realistically sustain. A provider that is consistent, collaborative, and accessible will often drive better outcomes over time than an "ideal" option that is hard to maintain.

Signs You've Found the Right Fit

Green Flags (Good Signs)	Red Flags (Warning Signs)
Asks about your child's daily routines and what you've already tried	Dismisses your observations or concerns
Explains their approach in plain language	Vague about credentials, methods, or experience
Shows you how they'll track and share progress	Won't let you observe sessions or see data
Willing to coordinate with school and other providers	Resistant to working with your child's other therapists
Adjusts strategies when something isn't working	Blames you or your child when progress stalls
Your child is generally comfortable attending	Your child shows ongoing distress around sessions

When to Make a Change

Consider exploring other options if progress has been limited for several months, staff turnover is frequent, or communication consistently feels strained. Trusting your instincts is part of advocating for your child — seeking a better fit is not a failure, it is paying attention.

Helpful Resources

Autism Society of Colorado: https://www.autismcolorado.org/
2-1-1 Colorado: https://www.211colorado.org/
Health First Colorado (Medicaid): https://www.healthfirstcolorado.com/
Early Intervention Colorado: https://cdec.colorado.gov/early-intervention-for-infants-and-toddlers
Colorado Department of Education (Special Ed): https://www.cde.state.co.us/cdesped/asd_guidelines
Aurora Mental Health & Recovery (Crisis Line): 303-617-2300

High-Quality, Local ABA in Aurora

If you're ready to move forward with ABA therapy, Alpaca can help. We connect Aurora families with trusted, local providers — no months-long waitlist. Whether your child feels most comfortable at home, in a clinic, or through a hybrid model, we'll match you with a provider who fits your family's needs, schedule, and insurance coverage.