The cost of autism services worries almost every family at first. The good news: in California, most children can access support through a combination of three systems. Here is how they generally fit together.
1. Health insurance
California law requires many health plans to cover behavioral health treatment for autism, including ABA. Coverage details vary, so call your plan and ask about covered services, in-network providers, prior authorization, and any copays.
2. Your Regional Center
Regional Centers coordinate and fund services for people with developmental disabilities. For Santa Clara County, that is the San Andreas Regional Center. They can help with assessments, service coordination, respite, and gaps that insurance does not cover.
3. Your school district
Public schools provide educational support through an IEP for eligible students, and for younger children through early-intervention programs. School services are provided at no cost to families.
Making the systems work together
- Insurance is usually the first stop for clinical therapies like ABA.
- Your Regional Center helps coordinate and fill gaps.
- The school district covers educational needs during the school day.
Keep a simple folder (or phone notes) with your plan details, Regional Center contacts, and IEP paperwork. When you call a provider, ask exactly which of these they accept — StarzMeet listings note insurance and services where available.
This guide is general information for families, not medical, legal, or financial advice. Programs, coverage, and eligibility change — always confirm current details directly with the provider, your health plan, your Regional Center, and licensed professionals.
