Delaware Autism Society ABA Referral List Guide
In short: The Delaware Autism Society offers an ABA referral list to connect families with autism therapy providers. While it's a helpful resource, the list may not include details on provider wait times or insurance acceptance. For personalized, up-to-date matches with vetted BCBA-led providers, consider using a free matching service like ABA For My Child, which also helps verify insurance coverage and availability.
Key takeaways
- The Delaware Autism Society provides a referral list of ABA providers in DE, but families should verify insurance and availability directly.
- Delaware Medicaid (Diamond State Health Plan) covers ABA therapy for eligible children; the referral list may include both Medicaid and private-pay providers.
- Early Intervention (Birth to Three) offers ABA referrals for children under 3, often coordinated through the Child Development Watch program.
- When contacting providers from any list, always ask about BCBA supervision, parent training, and current wait times.
Understanding the Delaware Autism Society ABA Referral List
The Delaware Autism Society (DAS) is a vital resource for families in the First State who are seeking support for autism. One of their most requested offerings is the ABA referral list - a directory of providers offering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to children and adults with autism. If you've recently received an autism diagnosis for your child, or if you're looking to switch providers, this list can be a helpful starting point.
ABA therapy is an evidence-based intervention that focuses on building communication, social, and adaptive skills while reducing behaviors that may interfere with learning. In Delaware, many families begin their search for a BCBA-led provider by turning to the DAS referral list. However, knowing how to use that list effectively - and what additional tools are available - can make all the difference in finding timely, quality care.
What Does the DAS Referral List Include?
The Delaware Autism Society's ABA referral list typically includes a range of providers, from large clinics to smaller agencies. It may list contact information, websites, and sometimes a brief description of services. Some common providers you might find on the list include organizations based in Wilmington, Newark, Dover, and other communities across New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties.
While the list is a great starting point, it often does not include crucial details such as:
- Current wait times (which can vary from weeks to months)
- Whether the provider accepts your specific insurance plan (including Medicaid/Diamond State Health Plan)
- Whether the provider offers in-home, clinic-based, or school-based services
- The BCBA-to-client ratio and supervision model
- Whether the provider offers parent training and other family supports
Because these details change frequently, the list should be seen as a directory to begin your research, not as a definitive guide to availability.
🔗 Related reading: ABA Waitlist in Colorado: Alternatives While You Wait · Local ABA Therapy
How to Obtain the Delaware Autism Society ABA Referral List
The DAS referral list is normally available by calling the Society directly or visiting their website. You may be asked to provide basic information such as your child's age, diagnosis, and insurance plan to receive a tailored version. It is also common to find the list at local autism resource fairs or through early intervention coordinators.
Other Ways to Access ABA Providers in Delaware
Besides the DAS list, families can also use:
- Delaware's Early Intervention system (Child Development Watch) - For children under 3, a service coordinator can provide a list of providers that participate with the Birth to Three program.
- Your insurance company's provider directory - Search for BCBA or ABA therapy providers in-network with your plan.
- Free matching services like ABA For My Child - These services do the legwork for you, checking availability, BCBA credentials, and insurance acceptance across multiple providers at once.
Insurance and Costs: What Delaware Families Need to Know
ABA therapy is expensive without coverage, with costs ranging from $50 to $150 per hour depending on the type of service. Fortunately, Delaware law requires many insurance plans to cover ABA therapy for autism, and Medicaid (Diamond State Health Plan) covers ABA for eligible children under 21. The Delaware Autism Society referral list may note which providers accept Medicaid, but it's always wise to verify directly.
Tips for Navigating Insurance Questions
- Ask the provider for a benefits verification (some do this for free).
- If you have private insurance, ask if there is an annual cap on ABA sessions.
- If you are uninsured or underinsured, DAS may be able to connect you with sliding-scale or grant-funded programs.
Using a free service like ABA For My Child can simplify insurance checks because we contact providers on your behalf to confirm coverage and share that information with you - at no cost.
🔗 Related reading: Direct Instruction vs Naturalistic ABA: Which Is Right? · Nearby ABA Therapy
How to Evaluate Providers on the DAS Referral List
Once you have a list of potential providers, it's time to do some detective work. Here are key factors to consider:
BCBA Credentials and Supervision
ABA therapy should be overseen by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Ask how many BCBAs are on staff and how often they will directly supervise your child's program. In Delaware, many clinics assign a BCBA to each client and provide ongoing training for Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs).
Service Location and Setting
Does the provider offer in-home therapy, clinic-based sessions, or school consultations? Think about what environment best suits your child. Some families prefer the comfort of home, while others find clinic settings offer more structure and socialization opportunities.
Parent Training and Involvement
Research shows that parent involvement improves outcomes. Ask if the provider offers regular parent training sessions, progress reports, and opportunities to observe sessions. High-quality programs treat parents as partners.
Wait Times and Availability
Delaware, like many states, has a shortage of BCBAs. Some providers have waitlists of 6 months or more. When you call, ask specifically: "What is your current wait time for a new client who has Medicaid/your specific insurance?" If the wait is too long, ask to be put on a cancellation list or ask for referrals to other providers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using an ABA Referral List
- Only calling the first provider on the list. Call at least three to compare availability and approach.
- Assuming all providers accept your insurance. Always verify before starting the intake process.
- Not asking about the BCBA's experience with your child's specific needs. If your child is non-speaking, for example, you want a BCBA who specializes in AAC or other communication methods.
- Skipping parent training. Even if you're overwhelmed, learning the basics of ABA can help your child generalize skills at home.
- Ignoring the importance of a good fit. Your child may need to visit a clinic first to see if they feel comfortable. Many providers offer free tours or brief meet-and-greets.
How ABA For My Child Can Help Delaware Families
At ABA For My Child, we understand that the Delaware Autism Society ABA referral list is just one piece of the puzzle. As a free matching service, we work with families across the entire state - from Wilmington to Seaford - to connect them with vetted, BCBA-led providers that match their child's needs and their insurance coverage.
Our process is simple: you complete a short intake, and we reach out to providers on your behalf. We check for current availability, BCBA credentials, and whether they accept your specific plan (including Medicaid). Then we present you with personalized options, so you can make an informed decision without hours of phone calls. It's a completely free service for families, sponsored by the providers in our network.
What Sets Our Network Apart
- We only partner with providers who have at least one BCBA on staff and who follow ethical, evidence-based practices.
- We update our provider information regularly, so you get current wait times and insurance data.
- We serve families throughout Delaware, including those in rural areas who may have fewer local options.
Putting It All Together: Your Next Steps
If you're ready to find ABA therapy for your child in Delaware, here's a practical checklist:
- Request the Delaware Autism Society ABA referral list for a broad view of providers.
- Contact the providers directly or use a free matching service like ABA For My Child to save time.
- Verify insurance benefits - ask about copays, deductibles, and any session limits.
- Ask about the BCBA's availability and supervision frequency.
- Schedule a visit or phone call to see if the approach aligns with your family's values.
Remember, the right provider can make a world of difference in your child's development. While the DAS referral list is a valuable resource, you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Let us help you find a vetted, BCBA-led provider that fits your family's unique needs - at no cost to you.