Understanding Medicaid Coverage for ABA Therapy in Utah

September 23, 2025 Understanding Medicaid Coverage for ABA Therapy in Utah

And how families in Taylorsville, St. George, Cedar City, Lehi, and beyond can access coordinated care with Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a gold-standard treatment for children diagnosed with autism. For many Utah families, Medicaid makes access to this therapy possible—but understanding what’s covered, how to qualify, and where to find integrated care can be overwhelming.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Medicaid ABA coverage in Utah, including how Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services streamlines the process and the services available near you, from Brigham City to St. George.

What Is ABA Therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based treatment that helps children with autism develop communication, social, learning, and daily living skills. Therapy is highly personalized, often delivered by Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs).

ABA programs typically include:

  • One-on-one sessions with an RBT
  • Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA)
  • Parent coaching
  • Progress tracking and data analysis
  • Skill-building tailored to the child’s developmental needs

Is ABA Therapy Covered by Medicaid in Utah?

Yes, Utah Medicaid covers ABA therapy for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, there are specific eligibility and documentation requirements.

Basic Requirements:

Requirement

Details

Age Range

Typically under 21 years (EPSDT benefit)

Diagnosis

Formal ASD diagnosis from a licensed provider

Referral

From a pediatrician or diagnosing clinician

Assessment

Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) conducted by a BCBA

Treatment Plan

Must be medically necessary and reviewed regularly

Medicaid Plan

Must be enrolled in Utah Medicaid (e.g., Molina, SelectHealth, U of U)

ABA therapy services are covered under Medicaid’s Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit, which mandates medically necessary services for children under 21, even if they are not listed in the state Medicaid plan.

What ABA Therapy Services Are Covered?

Covered services may include:

  • Behavior assessments
  • Development of treatment plans
  • Direct ABA therapy hours
  • Parent training
  • Supervision by a BCBA

The number of approved therapy hours depends on the child’s individual needs and plan. Medicaid typically requires progress reviews and updates every 6 months to continue services.

How Bridgeway Makes Accessing ABA Services Easier

Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services takes a family-centered approach to behavioral health. With nine locations across Utah, they help families navigate Medicaid coverage, submit necessary documentation, and access therapy close to home.

Why Families Choose Bridgeway

  • In-house support for Medicaid paperwork
  • On-site mental health and primary care for whole-child support
  • RBTs and BCBAs trained in trauma-informed care
  • Academy program for students needing educational and behavioral support
  • Ongoing family education and coaching

This integrated model reduces fragmentation so your child’s ABA therapy, mental health services, and even pediatric care are all under one roof.

Utah Locations Offering Medicaid-Covered ABA Therapy

To improve local access, Bridgeway offers ABA therapy near you, with team members ready to support your Medicaid journey.

1. Taylorsville, UT (Headquarters)

  • Full ABA services
  • Primary care and mental health support
  • Ideal for Salt Lake Valley residents searching for “ABA therapy near me”

2. St. George, UT

  • Serving families in southern Utah
  • Autism support services are available locally
  • Close to Washington, Hurricane, and Santa Clara

3. Cedar City, UT

  • Convenient access for Iron County families
  • Behavioral therapy and educational support options

4. Lehi, UT

  • Serving the rapidly growing Utah County region
  • Great for families in American Fork, Saratoga Springs, and Eagle Mountain

5. Roy, UT

  • Convenient for northern Utah families
  • RBTs and therapists available with Medicaid coverage

6. Brigham City, UT

  • Serving Box Elder County and surrounding areas
  • Primary care + behavior support in one clinic

7. Richfield, UT

  • One of the few integrated providers in central Utah
  • Great option for families in rural areas needing autism services

8. Salt Lake City, UT

  • Near downtown and central neighborhoods
  • Complete care model for kids with autism and mental health needs

9. Riverdale, UT

  • Close to Ogden and Weber County residents
  • Behavioral and primary care under one roof

How to Get Started with Medicaid ABA Therapy

The process may seem overwhelming. Bridgeway is here to walk you through it.

Step-by-Step

  • Confirm your Medicaid plan (Bridgeway accepts most Utah Medicaid plans)
  • Get a formal ASD diagnosis (Bridgeway can refer you if needed)
  • Schedule a consultation
  • Complete an FBA assessment with a BCBA
  • Begin therapy with an assigned RBT, with ongoing progress check-ins

Bridgeway also assists with submitting prior authorizations, tracking eligibility, and coordinating renewals so your child’s therapy stays on track.

Common Questions About Medicaid & ABA in Utah

Does every child with autism automatically qualify for ABA through Medicaid?

No. A formal diagnosis and treatment plan are required, and services must be deemed medically necessary.

How many hours of ABA therapy will my child receive?

That depends on their individual needs and evaluation. Medicaid may cover anywhere from 10 to 40 hours/week.

Can I switch providers and still use Medicaid?

Yes. Families may change providers and still retain their Medicaid benefits—though coordination between providers is recommended.

Does Bridgeway accept Medicaid Managed Care plans?

Yes. Bridgeway works with many Utah Medicaid plans, including:

  • Molina Healthcare of Utah
  • SelectHealth Community Care
  • University of Utah Health Plans

If you’re unsure about your plan, their admin team can help verify your coverage.

Careers in ABA: Start Your Path with Bridgeway

Bridgeway isn’t just a service provider; they’re a major employer across Utah with career opportunities for aspiring RBTs, BCBAs, and therapists.

If you’re looking for:

  • RBT careers in Utah
  • BCBA positions in Taylorsville, Lehi, or St. George
  • Behavioral health jobs with Medicaid-approved providers

Explore Careers at Bridgeway

Medicaid + Integrated Care = A Better Experience for Families

Navigating autism support, ABA therapy, and Medicaid can feel like a full-time job. That’s why families across Utah, from Salt Lake City to Cedar City, turn to Bridgeway for care that’s coordinated, accessible, and family-focused.

You don’t have to manage it all alone.

Ready to Begin ABA Therapy with Medicaid?

Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services can help you:

  • Verify your Medicaid eligibility
  • Schedule an autism assessment or referral
  • Match your child with an RBT near you
  • Integrate mental health and primary care into your plan

Find Your Local Clinic

 

City

Learn More

Taylorsville

View Taylorsville Office

St. George

View St. George Office

Cedar City

View Cedar City Office

Lehi

View Lehi Office

Roy

View Roy Office

Brigham City

View Brigham City Office

Richfield

View Richfield Office

Salt Lake City

View Salt Lake City Office

Riverdale

View Riverdale Office

Your Bridge to Better Care Starts Here

If you’re a Utah parent searching for ABA therapy covered by Medicaid, you don’t need to go it alone. At Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services, we help families access life-changing behavioral, mental, and medical care all under one roof.

From Cedar City to Taylorsville, we’re proud to support children, parents, and young adults with autism support services tailored to your needs.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today or explore more about how we help families at:
https://www.bridgewayihs.com