Does Aetna Cover ABA Therapy?

Navigating insurance for applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy can feel overwhelming. At Alpaca Health, we simplify the process so you can focus on supporting your child. Our dedicated insurance specialists work directly with your provider to make sure everything runs smoothly from the start.

Aetna
In-Network Provider

We Accept Aetna

Yes, Alpaca Health proudly accepts Aetna insurance for ABA therapy services. We're in-network with most Aetna plans, which means your family can access high-quality care with reduced out-of-pocket costs. We handle the billing and authorization paperwork, so you can focus on your child's progress.

How Aetna Coverage Works for ABA at Alpaca Health

Within 24 hours of you reaching out, we will share how your insurance covers ABA therapy – required documentation, typical timeline, and potential costs of therapy.

Referrals

Some Cigna plans require a referral from your pediatrician or primary care provider, while others allow direct access to ABA therapy.

Diagnosis

Network status and benefits can differ based on your state or region, even within the same insurance company.

Prior Authorization

Most plans require prior authorization and documentation of medical necessity before therapy begins. We handle this process for you.

Session limits and costs

Coverage limits, copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles vary by plan. Some plans offer unlimited sessions; others have annual caps.

How Insurance Coverage Works for ABA at Alpaca Health

Understand Your Local Aetna Plan’s Coverage Benefits

Aetna operates under different names and labels across states and employer groups. You might see Aetna coverage listed as "Aetna HealthCare," "Aetna Behavioral Health," or combined with other brands like "Evernorth" depending on your location and employer. The good news? We accept them all.

Important: Even if your plan card shows a different name, if Aetna is your insurance carrier, we can verify your benefits and get you started with ABA therapy services.

Aetna

Aetna

Texas
  • Aetna Texas Health Insurance Plans
  • Aetna Individual & Family Plans – Texas
  • Aetna Connect (Marketplace) – Texas
  • Aetna Open Choice PPO – Texas
  • Aetna HMO / EPO Texas Network
  • Aetna LocalPlus Network Texas
  • Aetna Simple Choice Plans – Texas
  • Aetna High-Deductible / HSA Compatible – Texas
  • Texas Health + Aetna (Employer Group) Plans
  • Aetna Child & Family Coverage – Texas
  • Aetna Individual & Family Plans (Bronze/Silver/Gold) – Texas
  • Aetna Behavioral Health & Autism Coverage Network – Texas
  • Aetna Pediatric Behavioral Health Services – Texas
  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Services – Aetna Texas
  • Aetna Telehealth Enabled Plans – Texas
  • Aetna Employer Small Business Plans – Texas
  • Aetna Large Employer Group Plans – Texas
  • Aetna Individual Marketplace Telehealth & Virtual Care – Texas
  • Aetna LocalPlus IN / National Network – Texas
  • Aetna Individual & Family Network Plans – Texas
Aetna

Aetna

Colorado
  • Aetna Health Network Only
  • Aetna Health Network Option
  • Choice POS / Choice POS II
  • Choice POS II (Formerly Coventry OAP)
  • Elect Choice HMO (includes Aetna Health Funds)
  • HMO / POS / EPO / PPO
  • Managed Choice Open Access PPO
  • Managed Choice POS
  • National Advantage Program (NAP) PPO
  • Open Access Aetna Select
  • Open Access Elect Choice (includes Aetna Health Funds)
  • Open Access HMO
  • Open Choice PPO
  • Open Choice PPO (SOI / Out-of-State)
  • QPOS (Quality Point-of-Service)
  • Select (Employer / Small Group)
  • Signature Authority (ASA or SRC PPO)
  • Upfront Advantage
  • Aetna Choice POS II (Employer Plan)
  • Aetna Open Access Managed Choice
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Check Your Insurance Coverage

Let us verify your Cigna benefits and confirm your eligibility for ABA therapy.
We'll explain your costs, network status, and help you get started.

Find ABA Therapy Covered by Aetna Near You

Many insurance plans work across state lines, and we serve families nationwide. Select your state below to confirm network availability and learn about providers in your area. We'll verify your benefits and help you get started with personalized ABA therapy.

States We Serve

Explore our coverage areas and find providers near you

FAQs About Aetna ABA Therapy Coverage

Do we need a referral or diagnosis for ABA therapy to be covered by Aetna?

In most cases (with some exceptions, such as Colorado Medicaid), insurance plans require a formal diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from a qualified provider—such as a developmental pediatrician, neurologist, psychologist, or psychiatrist—before ABA therapy can be covered. Without this diagnosis, insurers typically do not consider ABA therapy medically necessary.

Does Aetna ABA therapy coverage require a prior authorization?

Almost always. Prior authorization means your insurance company must review and approve the treatment plan before services can start. Our team handles this process for you, submitting the necessary clinical documentation to ensure approval.

Do I need proof of medical necessity for ABA therapy to be covered by Aetna?

Yes. Insurance companies require documentation showing that ABA therapy is medically necessary for your child’s development. This is usually demonstrated through the diagnostic report and a treatment plan written by a BCBA outlining specific, measurable goals.

Does Aetna cover ABA therapy for all ages?

Aetna must approve all ABA therapy services that are medically necessary. This typically covers all ages from 0 to 21. However, ABA therapy services for older teens mean face higher payer scrutiny and require more documentation.

How long does it take for Aetna to approve ABA therapy?

Approval times vary by insurer, but typically range from 1–3 weeks after all documents are submitted. Delays can occur if additional information is requested. Our team stays in close contact with your insurance to help move the process along.

Are parent/caregiver training sessions covered by Aetna?

Yes, most plans include coverage for caregiver training as part of the ABA treatment program. These sessions are considered essential because progress is greatest when parents and caregivers are part of the learning process.

Does Aetna cover virtual ABA therapy?

Many insurers do cover telehealth ABA sessions, especially for parent training or supervision by a BCBA. Coverage may depend on your state and specific plan. We can confirm eligibility during your benefits check.

What if my Aetna plan doesn’t cover ABA therapy?

If your plan excludes ABA or limits coverage, we’ll walk you through alternatives—such as appealing the denial, switching to a plan with autism benefits, or exploring private pay or grant options. Some states also offer Medicaid or autism mandates that ensure ABA coverage.

Get Started With ABA Therapy Today

Insurance covers the majority of the costs of ABA therapy. Start today and get a clear cost estimate in 24 hours or less.