How to Find ABA Therapy Providers in Utah

Finding the right ABA therapy provider for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll make after an autism diagnosis. With dozens of providers across Utah offering varying services, specialties, and approaches, navigating your options can feel overwhelming. But you're not alone—and with the right information, you can find a provider who's the perfect fit for your family.

This comprehensive 2025 guide walks Utah families through every step of finding, evaluating, and selecting qualified ABA therapy providers. Whether you're starting your search in Salt Lake City, Provo, Ogden, St. George, or anywhere else in Utah, you'll learn exactly where to look, what questions to ask, and how to make an informed decision.

Understanding Your ABA Provider Search

Before diving into specific directories and search methods, it's important to understand what you're looking for and why a thoughtful, informed search matters.

What Makes a Quality ABA Provider?

Not all ABA providers are created equal. Quality providers share several key characteristics that directly impact your child's outcomes and your family's experience:

• Proper Credentials: Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) supervising Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) or trained behavior technicians
• Individualized Approach: Treatment plans tailored to your child's unique needs, not one-size-fits-all programs
• Evidence-Based Methods: Use of scientifically validated ABA techniques and ongoing data collection
• Family-Centered Care: Active parent involvement, regular communication, and training
• Appropriate Intensity: Recommended therapy hours based on assessment, not on what they can bill
• Cultural Competence: Understanding and respecting your family's values, language, and cultural background

Why Your Search Matters

Research shows that the quality of ABA services directly impacts outcomes. Finding the right provider means:

• Better progress toward your child's goals
• More positive therapy experiences for your child
• Reduced stress for your family
• More efficient use of therapy hours and resources
• Stronger partnership between home and therapy settings

Important Note: Utah is experiencing growth in ABA services, which means more choices—but also more variability in quality. Some providers may have waitlists of several weeks to months, while others have immediate availability. Quick availability doesn't necessarily indicate quality (positive or negative), so it's essential to evaluate each provider thoroughly regardless of wait times.

Official Utah ABA Provider Directories

Utah maintains several official directories and resources specifically designed to help families find qualified ABA providers. These should be your starting point in the search process.

Essential Utah ABA Resources

1. Utah Department of Health and Human Services ABA Provider List

This is the official list of Medicaid-enrolled ABA providers in Utah. Even if you have private insurance, this list includes many of Utah's established providers.

Access: medicaid.utah.gov/ltc-2/asd-fap/

Updated: Regularly as new providers enroll

What it includes: Provider names, contact information, counties served, ages served, insurance accepted, waitlist status

2. Utah Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) Provider List

Comprehensive directory maintained by Utah's Family Health Services division.

Access: familyhealth.utah.gov (search for "ABA Providers")

What it includes: Contact details, service types, insurance accepted, geographic coverage, telehealth availability, Spanish-speaking staff

3. Autism Council of Utah Provider Directory

A-Z directory of autism service providers including ABA therapy companies.

Access: autismcouncilofutah.org

What it includes: Detailed descriptions of services, specializations, contact information

4. Utah Medical Home Portal

Searchable database of healthcare providers including ABA therapy services.

Access: ut.medicalhomeportal.org

What it includes: Detailed provider information, services offered, locations, insurance accepted

Understanding Provider Lists

When using these directories, keep in mind:

• Information Changes: Provider details like waitlist status, insurance acceptance, and service areas can change frequently. Always verify directly with the provider.
• Not Comprehensive: Some quality providers may not be listed if they're not enrolled with Medicaid or certain programs.
• No Quality Endorsement: Being on an official list means the provider meets minimum enrollment requirements, not that they're endorsed or evaluated for quality.
• Self-Reported Data: Most information is provided by the providers themselves and should be verified.

7 Effective Ways to Find ABA Providers in Utah

Beyond official directories, here are additional proven methods for finding quality ABA providers in Utah:

1. BACB Certificant Registry

The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) maintains a public registry of all certified BCBAs and RBTs nationwide.

How to use it:

• Visit bacb.com/services/o.php?page=100155
• Search by location (Utah) and certification type (BCBA)
• View individual BCBAs and their contact information
• Verify certifications are current and check for any disciplinary actions

Advantages: Most reliable source for verifying credentials, includes all certified providers even if they work independently

Limitations: Doesn't indicate which BCBAs are accepting new clients or provide company/organizational information

2. Your Insurance Provider Network

Your insurance company maintains a list of in-network ABA providers.

How to access:

• Call the member services number on your insurance card
• Request a list of in-network ABA therapy providers in your area
• Log into your insurance portal and search for "Applied Behavior Analysis" or "Autism Services"
• Ask specifically about any specialist pediatric behavioral health networks

Advantages: Ensures you're maximizing your insurance benefits, typically lower out-of-pocket costs

Note: Utah's major insurance providers with ABA networks include Select Health, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Utah, Regence, UnitedHealthcare, and Utah Medicaid.

3. Referrals from Healthcare Providers

Your child's pediatrician, developmental pediatrician, or diagnosing psychologist can often recommend providers.

Healthcare providers to ask:

• Your child's pediatrician
• Developmental pediatricians
• Psychologists who conducted the autism evaluation
• Speech-language pathologists or occupational therapists
• Early intervention specialists (Baby Watch coordinators)

Why this works: These professionals often have relationships with local ABA providers and know which ones consistently deliver quality services.

4. Parent Support Groups and Community Connections

Other parents are often your best source of honest information about local ABA providers.

Where to connect:

• Utah Parent Center: Offers support groups and connects families (utahparentcenter.org)
• Autism Council of Utah: Hosts events and maintains community connections
• Facebook Groups: Search for "Utah Autism Parents" or location-specific groups
• Local autism events: Walk for Autism, conferences, family resource fairs
• School connections: Special education PTAs or parent groups

What to ask: Parents can share real experiences about communication, staff turnover, progress tracking, and overall satisfaction—insights you won't find in official listings.

5. Coalition of Utah ABA Providers (CUAP)

CUAP is a professional organization representing ABA provider companies in Utah.

Access: utahabaproviders.org

What you'll find: List of member organizations that have committed to following Best Practice Standards for ABA services in Utah. While membership doesn't guarantee quality, it indicates a commitment to professional standards.

6. Utah Association for Behavior Analysis (UtABA)

Professional association for behavior analysts practicing in Utah.

Access: ut-aba.org

How it helps: Resources page includes links to finding providers and understanding licensure requirements in Utah.

7. Online Reviews and Research

While online reviews should be taken with a grain of salt, they can provide additional insights.

Where to look:

• Google Business reviews for specific provider companies
• Better Business Bureau (bbb.org) for any complaints or ratings
• Provider company websites for detailed information about their approach

Important caveat: Some very good providers may have few online reviews simply because they're smaller or newer. Conversely, some providers may have coordinated positive review campaigns. Use online reviews as one piece of information, not the deciding factor.

How to Verify Provider Credentials

Once you've identified potential providers, it's critical to verify their qualifications. Utah has specific licensing requirements for behavior analysts, and national certification standards apply as well.

Essential Credentials to Verify

1. BCBA Certification (Board Certified Behavior Analyst)

Why it matters: BCBAs are the qualified professionals who design and oversee ABA treatment programs. They must have a master's degree or higher, extensive supervised experience, and pass a rigorous national exam.

How to verify:

• Visit the BACB Certificant Registry at bacb.com
• Search for the BCBA's name
• Confirm their certification is active (not expired or lapsed)
• Check for any published disciplinary actions (marked with a † symbol)
• Verify their certification number matches what the provider gave you

2. Utah State Licensure

Why it matters: Utah requires behavior analysts to hold state licensure through the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) in addition to BACB certification.

How to verify:

• Visit dopl.utah.gov
• Use the license lookup tool
• Search for "Behavior Analyst" or "Licensed Assistant Behavior Analyst"
• Confirm the license is active and in good standing

License types in Utah:

• LBA (Licensed Behavior Analyst): Equivalent to BCBA
• LABA (Licensed Assistant Behavior Analyst): Equivalent to BCaBA

3. RBT Certification (Registered Behavior Technician)

Why it matters: RBTs are the therapists who work directly with your child. They must complete specific training and pass a competency assessment.

How to verify:

• RBTs are also listed in the BACB registry
• Ask the provider for the names of RBTs who would work with your child
• Verify their active RBT certification status

4. Organizational Credentials

Day Treatment Licensure: ABA companies in Utah must obtain Day Treatment Licensure through the Utah Department of Health and Human Services before providing services.

How to verify: Contact the provider and ask for proof of their day treatment license, or inquire with DHHS.

Essential Evaluation Criteria

Beyond credentials, several factors should influence your provider selection:

Experience and Specialization

Questions to explore:

• How many years has the BCBA been practicing?
• What age range do they typically work with?
• Do they have experience with your child's specific profile (e.g., minimally verbal, high support needs, teenagers)?
• What's their experience with any co-occurring conditions (ADHD, anxiety, etc.)?

Treatment Philosophy and Approach

Different providers may emphasize different ABA methodologies. Understanding their approach helps ensure alignment with your values.

Common approaches include:

• Natural Environment Teaching (NET): Learning through play and daily activities
• Discrete Trial Training (DTT): Structured, table-based teaching
• Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT): Child-led, play-based intervention
• Verbal Behavior: Focus on communication functions

Most quality providers use a combination of methods tailored to each child. Be wary of those who say they use only one approach for all children.

Service Delivery Models

Consider where and how therapy will be delivered. Common models include in-home therapy (convenient, natural environment, family involvement), clinic-based services (specialized resources, peer opportunities, fewer distractions), school-based support (educational setting support, teacher collaboration), community-based sessions (real-world skill practice, generalization), and hybrid approaches (best of multiple settings, promotes generalization).

Staffing and Supervision

Critical staffing questions:

• What is the BCBA-to-client ratio? (Lower is generally better; 1:10-15 is common)
• How often will the BCBA supervise sessions? (At least 2-4 hours per month is standard)
• What is the company's staff turnover rate?
• How are RBTs trained and supported?
• Will my child have consistent therapists or rotating staff?

Communication and Family Involvement

Strong provider-family partnerships are essential for success.

Look for providers who:

• Provide regular progress updates (weekly or bi-weekly)
• Welcome parent observation and questions
• Offer parent training as part of services
• Respond promptly to concerns
• Involve families in goal-setting
• Share data and make it understandable

Data Collection and Progress Monitoring

Essential practices:

• Data collected during every session
• Regular review and analysis of progress data
• Treatment plan modifications based on data
• Clear, visual presentation of progress (graphs, charts)
• Regular formal progress reports (typically quarterly)

Geographic Coverage Across Utah

ABA provider availability varies significantly across Utah. Understanding the landscape in your specific area helps set realistic expectations.

Areas with Most Provider Options

Salt Lake County: Highest concentration of providers, shortest wait times typically available

Utah County: Growing number of providers, good availability in Provo, Orem, Lehi areas

Davis County: Good provider options, many Salt Lake-based providers serve this area

Weber County: Moderate provider availability in Ogden and surrounding areas

Areas with Limited Provider Options

Rural Utah counties often have fewer providers, which may mean longer wait times for services, providers traveling longer distances (which may affect scheduling), potentially telehealth-based BCBA supervision with local technicians, and the need to consider clinic-based services in larger cities.

Counties with more limited coverage include: Cache, Box Elder, Washington (St. George area has providers but fewer than Wasatch Front), Carbon, Emery, Sanpete, Sevier, and most other rural counties.

Telehealth Options

Some providers offer telehealth services for parent training and consultation, BCBA supervision (with in-person technicians), and follow-up meetings and progress reviews. While direct ABA therapy is typically in-person, telehealth can expand access for families in rural areas or for specific aspects of treatment.

Navigating Insurance Networks

Understanding your insurance coverage and finding in-network providers can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Utah's Major Insurance Networks

Utah Medicaid

Coverage: Comprehensive ABA coverage with no annual cap for eligible individuals with autism

Finding providers: Use the official Medicaid ABA provider list at medicaid.utah.gov

Authorization: Requires prescription from physician/psychologist and prior authorization

Select Health

Coverage: ABA covered under Utah mandate, specific benefits vary by plan

Finding providers: Call member services or search provider directory for "Applied Behavior Analysis"

Common network providers: Many major Utah ABA companies are in-network

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Utah / Regence

Coverage: ABA therapy covered, annual limits vary by specific plan

Finding providers: Provider search tool on insurance website or member services

UnitedHealthcare / Optum

Coverage: Many plans cover ABA; self-funded plans may have different rules

Finding providers: Optum Behavioral Health network for ABA providers

Understanding In-Network vs. Out-of-Network

In-network providers typically offer lower out-of-pocket costs (copay/coinsurance), handle the authorization process, but limit your selection to network providers with full benefit maximums. Out-of-network providers may have higher costs where you may pay the full rate, require you to file claims yourself, but allow you to choose any qualified provider, though they may have lower out-of-network maximums.

What If Your Preferred Provider Isn't In-Network?

You have several options:

• Single Case Agreement: Ask if the provider can negotiate a single case agreement with your insurance to be treated as in-network
• Out-of-Network Benefits: Use out-of-network benefits if your plan includes them (typically higher out-of-pocket costs)
• Appeal Process: If there are no in-network providers in your area or with appropriate expertise, file an appeal with your insurance
• Private Pay: Some families choose to pay privately if they strongly prefer a specific provider

20 Critical Questions to Ask Providers

When you contact potential providers, come prepared with questions. Here's a comprehensive list organized by category:

Basic Logistics

• Do you currently have availability? If there's a waitlist, how long is it?
• What areas/counties do you serve?
• Do you offer in-home, clinic-based, or other service models?
• What are your typical operating hours? Do you offer evening or weekend sessions?
• How flexible is scheduling if we need to reschedule occasionally?

Insurance and Financial

• Do you accept my insurance? (Be specific about your plan)
• Are you in-network or out-of-network with my insurance?
• Will you handle insurance authorization and billing, or is that our responsibility?
• What are the out-of-pocket costs I should expect? (copays, deductibles, etc.)
• If you're not in-network, can we negotiate a single case agreement?

Qualifications and Experience

• How many years has your BCBA been practicing?
• Does your BCBA have experience with my child's age group and specific profile?
• What is your BCBA-to-client ratio?
• Are all of your therapists RBT certified or in the process of certification?
• What is your staff turnover rate?

Service Delivery

• How many hours per week do you recommend based on assessment? (Be wary if they tell you before assessing your child)
• How often will the BCBA supervise sessions directly?
• Will my child have consistent therapists or rotating staff?
• How do you involve parents in the therapy process?
• Do you provide parent training? How often?

Treatment Approach

• What ABA methodologies do you primarily use? (DTT, NET, PRT, etc.)
• How do you tailor treatment to each child's interests and learning style?
• How do you handle challenging behaviors?
• Do you use any aversive procedures? (The answer should be no or very rarely with specific ethical guidelines)
• How do you ensure skills generalize to other settings?

Communication and Progress Monitoring

• How often will I receive progress updates?
• In what format will progress information be shared? (Reports, graphs, meetings?)
• How quickly do you typically respond to parent questions or concerns?
• Will I have access to my child's data and treatment goals?
• How often are treatment plans reviewed and updated?

Red Flags to Watch For

Certain warning signs should make you think twice about a provider:

Major Red Flags

• Lack of Proper Credentials: BCBA certification and Utah licensure are non-negotiable
• Guaranteed Outcomes: No reputable provider promises to "cure" autism or guarantees specific results
• Resistance to Parent Involvement: Quality providers welcome and encourage family participation
• No Data Collection: ABA is data-driven; providers should collect and share progress data
• Pressure Tactics: Be cautious of aggressive sales approaches or pressure to commit immediately
• Hours Not Based on Assessment: Recommended hours should come after thorough assessment, not before
• Inflexibility: One-size-fits-all programs without individualization
• Aversive Procedures: Use of punishment, restraint, or other aversive techniques without clear ethical justification
• Poor Communication: Difficulty reaching staff, unreturned calls, vague answers to questions
• Extremely High Turnover: If you meet multiple staff members who mention recent hiring or frequent changes
• Negative Online Pattern: Multiple detailed complaints about similar issues (though consider the source)
• Reluctance to Provide References: Established providers should be able to offer references or testimonials

Trust Your Instincts

Beyond specific red flags, pay attention to your gut feelings. Do you feel heard and respected? Are staff friendly and professional? Does the environment feel positive and supportive? Do they speak respectfully about autism and autistic individuals? Does your child seem comfortable with the provider?

Step-by-Step Provider Selection Process

Here's a systematic approach to finding and selecting your ABA provider:

Step 1: Gather Information

Collect your insurance information, your child's diagnosis documentation, and any evaluation reports. Clarify your preferences for service location (home, clinic, etc.) and your geographic area.

Step 2: Generate Provider List

Use the methods described earlier to create a list of 5-10 potential providers in your area. Include their contact information and key details from directories.

Step 3: Initial Contact and Screening

Call each provider on your list. Ask basic screening questions about availability, insurance, and service area. Narrow your list to 3-5 providers based on these initial calls.

Step 4: Verify Credentials

Use the BACB registry and Utah DOPL to verify credentials of your top candidates. Eliminate any providers without proper credentials.

Step 5: Schedule Consultations

Most providers offer free consultations. Schedule these with your top 2-3 choices. Many will meet at your home or their clinic to discuss services.

Step 6: Conduct In-Depth Interviews

During consultations, ask the detailed questions from our list above. Observe how the provider interacts with you and your child. Request to see sample progress reports or data presentations.

Step 7: Check References

Ask for references from current or former clients (some providers may have policies about this). If possible, talk to other parents about their experiences.

Step 8: Compare and Decide

Create a comparison chart with your top providers. Consider qualifications, approach, availability, cost, and your overall comfort level. Discuss the options with family members.

Step 9: Begin the Process

Contact your chosen provider to begin intake, assessment, and insurance authorization. Understand this may take several weeks.

Step 10: Evaluate Early On

After the first month or two, assess whether the provider is meeting your expectations. It's okay to make a change if something isn't working.

Special Considerations for Utah Families

Rural Utah Challenges

If you live in rural Utah, consider these strategies:

• Cast a wider net: Look for providers willing to travel or who offer hybrid models
• Telehealth components: Some supervision and parent training can occur via telehealth
• Intensive periods: Consider intensive therapy blocks (e.g., several hours on fewer days) rather than spread-out schedules
• Regional centers: Explore whether clinic-based services in the nearest city are feasible
• Community training: Some providers offer training to local paraprofessionals or educators

Spanish-Speaking Families

Several Utah providers offer services in Spanish or have Spanish-speaking staff. The CSHCN provider list indicates which providers have Spanish speakers. Don't hesitate to ask specifically about bilingual services during your initial contact.

Cultural Considerations

Quality ABA providers should be culturally responsive and respectful of your family's values, traditions, and practices. Discuss your cultural background and any specific considerations during consultations to ensure a good fit.

Children with Complex Needs

If your child has significant medical needs, behavioral challenges, or multiple diagnoses, seek providers with specific expertise in these areas. Don't hesitate to ask about their experience with complex cases during the interview process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to start ABA therapy after choosing a provider?

The timeline typically takes 4-8 weeks from initial contact to first therapy session. This includes intake (1-2 weeks), assessment (1-2 weeks), insurance authorization (2-4 weeks), and scheduling (immediate to 2 weeks depending on availability). Some providers may have longer wait lists adding additional time.

What if I'm not satisfied with my chosen provider?

You have the right to change providers at any time. Most families give a provider 1-2 months to assess fit, but trust your instincts. Contact your insurance about transferring care, and be aware of any authorization timing issues. Many insurance companies allow provider changes without penalty.

Can I work with multiple ABA providers simultaneously?

Yes, Utah Medicaid explicitly allows this for services in different settings (e.g., one provider for home-based services, another for school consultation). With private insurance, check your policy, but many allow this with proper coordination and authorization. Ensure providers communicate with each other.

Do all BCBAs in Utah have to be licensed?

Yes, Utah requires behavior analysts to hold state licensure in addition to BACB certification. Always verify both credentials. The only exception would be behavior analysts providing supervision or consultation from out of state via telehealth under specific circumstances.

How do I know if recommended therapy hours are appropriate?

Recommendations should be based on comprehensive assessment, not arbitrary. Research shows intensive therapy (25-40 hours/week) produces best outcomes for many children, but your child's specific needs, age, other services, and family circumstances should all factor in. Ask your BCBA to explain their rationale. You can also seek a second opinion from another BCBA.

What if there are no providers in my rural Utah area?

Contact providers in the nearest larger city and ask about their travel policies. Some will serve rural areas with adjusted schedules. Utah Medicaid also has provisions for accessing services from further distances when local options aren't available. You can also explore telehealth-supported models or file an appeal with your insurance for out-of-network benefits.

Should I choose the provider with the shortest wait list?

Not necessarily. While wait time is a factor, quality and fit should be your primary considerations. A short wait might indicate they're newer or have high turnover, though it could also mean they're efficiently managed or expanding. Evaluate all factors together rather than deciding on wait time alone.

How important is it that the BCBA personally works with my child regularly?

Very important. While RBTs provide direct therapy, the BCBA should supervise regularly (minimum 2-4 hours per month is standard). They should periodically work directly with your child, train staff, analyze data, and modify programs. Minimal BCBA involvement is a significant concern.

Conclusion: Empowering Your Provider Search

Finding the right ABA provider for your child is a significant undertaking, but with the right information and systematic approach, you can make a confident, informed decision. Remember that you are your child's best advocate, and you have every right to be selective and ask questions.

The Utah ABA landscape continues to grow and evolve, offering families more choices than ever before. By using the official directories, verifying credentials, asking the right questions, and trusting your instincts, you'll find a provider who is not only qualified but also the right fit for your unique family.

Key Takeaways

• Start with official Utah directories (DHHS, CSHCN, Autism Council of Utah)
• Always verify BCBA credentials through BACB registry and Utah state licensure
• Use multiple search methods including insurance networks, referrals, and parent connections
• Come prepared with comprehensive questions covering logistics, qualifications, approach, and communication
• Watch for red flags like lack of credentials, guaranteed outcomes, or poor communication
• Don't rush the decision—invest time in consultations and comparisons
• Remember that you can change providers if the fit isn't right
• Rural families may need creative solutions including telehealth and hybrid models
• Quality ABA providers welcome questions, involve families, and make decisions based on data

You've got this! Armed with the knowledge from this guide, you're ready to navigate the provider search process confidently. Take it one step at a time, stay organized with checklists, and remember that finding the right provider is worth the effort—it's an investment in your child's future.