Is ABA still recommended for autism?

ABA is still recommended for autism by many doctors and covered by many health plans. It remains one of the most studied approaches for young autistic children.

What’s changed is how it’s practiced. Many programs now teach through play and daily routines instead of long tabletop drills. They pay closer attention to a child’s comfort, choices and assent. Approaches built on ABA principles, such as naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions, are part of that shift.

In Colorado, Health First Colorado covers ABA for members 20 and younger when it’s medically necessary, and state-regulated private plans have to cover medically necessary ABA for autism. ABA is still one option among several. Speech therapy, occupational therapy and other supports often work alongside it.