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10 Best ABA Therapy Providers in Decatur, GA (2026)

Compare 38 ABA providers serving Decatur. Explore the full ranked list and find a provider that feels right for your child.

Inside Blossom ABA Therapy's Riverdale clinic
1

Blossom ABA Therapy - Riverdale — 2 locations

Premium
2 Locations · Serving Decatur, GAAccepting new clients

At Blossom ABA Therapy in Riverdale, we provide center-based ABA therapy for children with autism in a setting built for learning, movement, and connection. Individualized sessions help children build communication, social, behavioral, and daily living skills. Our clinic includes private therapy spaces, sensory and group activity areas, literacy corners, art and craft areas, and active play zones. We use play and everyday routines to make skill-building meaningful, while parents remain an active part of their child's care. We serve families in Riverdale, Jonesboro, Morrow, Forest Park, Stockbridge, Fayetteville, College Park, and nearby Clayton County and south metro Atlanta communities.

  • Center-based
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Apricott ABA Therapy Center in Marietta, GA photo 2
4

Apricott ABA Therapy Center

Premium
Serving Decatur, GAAges 1-18Accepting new clients

Families in the Atlanta metro area can access Apricott in-home Applied Behavior Analysis services with clinical oversight from Board Certified Behavior Analysts and trained therapists. The Georgia regional hub is designated at 2470 Windy Hill Road SE in Marietta, supporting coordination of assessments, care planning, and ongoing services for learners across communities such as Atlanta, Alpharetta, Marietta, Sandy Springs, Buckhead, and surrounding neighborhoods. Apricott participates with major commercial insurers and Medicaid where applicable, with transparent eligibility support so families understand coverage before services begin. Greater Atlanta care is delivered primarily in home and community settings so therapy fits naturally into daily routines. Treatment emphasizes individualized goals, caregiver collaboration, and measurable progress across communication, adaptive skills, and everyday independence. Apricott maintains a BHCOE-accredited framework with typically quick turnaround and limited wait times compared with many regional providers. Apricott serves toddlers through adolescents, tailoring plans to each developmental stage. Parent participation is encouraged, with practical coaching so strategies carry over beyond scheduled sessions. Center-based options elsewhere in Georgia use the same organizational standards for quality and family communication when families explore multiple levels of care.

  • In-home
  • Medicaid
AetnaAmerigroupBlue Cross Blue ShieldCareSource+ 6 more
Adult and child writing together.
6

Gradual Behavioral Health

Premium
Serving Decatur, GAAges 0-17Accepting new clients

Gradual Behavioral Health provides in-home ABA therapy for children ages 2 to 18 across Georgia. Our therapists come to your home or your child’s daycare, so therapy fits into the routines your family already has. Meaghan Timko leads our clinical program. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with more than 20 years in ABA. She builds each treatment plan around your child’s goals and trains every therapist on our team to deliver it with care and consistency. Getting started is fast. Our office handles the paperwork from start to finish, including insurance verification, authorizations, and scheduling. You focus on your child. We handle the rest. We work closely with your child’s pediatrician. We share progress, coordinate referrals, and keep everyone caring for your child on the same page. Gradual is a Georgia team serving Georgia families. Call us at 404-327-6405 to learn how we can help your child grow.

  • In-home
  • School-based
  • Medicaid
  • Telehealth
TricareAnthemBlue Cross Blue Shield+ 1 more

Other ABA Providers in Decatur

North Georgia Autism Center - Woodstock

Verified
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 0-18

We exist to solve the critical issues involving Autism Spectrum Disorder faced by both our clients and their families. Our unique approach to ASD is not only what differentiates us, but also what makes us successful. We provide a broad range of therapies, services and solutions to help facilitate change and support our clients.

  • Center-based
  • School-based
  • Medicaid

Progress ABA: Behavioral Consulting and Therapy Services, LLC

Verified
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 0-18

Our Goal is to provide highly effective treatment for children with autism and their parents by following a method scientifically proven to bring clear results. The method we use is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) based on extensive clinical peer reviewed research. We service families with children and adolescents on the autism spectrum 18 months to 18 years. Therapy addresses a variety of areas including language, cognitive, social, self-help (potty training, dressing, grooming, eating), gross motor & fine motor skills, play skills, and behavioral issues. Behavioral consultation includes ​skill assessment, functional behavioral assessment, treatment planning, parent training, and creating a behavior intervention plan (BIP). We are locally owned with a heavy emphasis on in family involvement, flexibility, intervening in natural environments (home, schools, daycares, and other community locations), and extensive Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT) training. We provide individualized treatment with hours recommended based on thorough assessment (4-40 hours a week depending on level of need). Our goal is for the child/adolescent to become more independent, develop healthy relationships, and eventually fade services. Our Behavior Analysts provide in-person supervision so that we can give RBT's direct support and adjust plans as needed. We provide parent training to help families work with their own children.

  • Community-based
  • In-home
  • Medicaid
  • Telehealth
Achievement Behavior Services

Achievement Behavior Services

Listed
Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 1-9

Children ages 18 months through 9 years receive one-to-one ABA at our Decatur center, with play and peer practice built into the day. Programs include early intervention, social-skills groups, parent training, behavior assessments, and school consultation. Families can bring the communication device, PECS cards, or sensory items their child uses, along with lunch. Our intake team reviews assessment, enrollment, and insurance verification.

  • Center-based
  • Early intervention
  • Parent training
  • Social skills
Achievements ABA Therapy

Achievements ABA Therapy

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Children

We provide individualized ABA in homes, schools, daycares, and community settings in Decatur. Families can also use assessments, telehealth, and parent training. Intake asks about the child's needs and county of residence so we can plan next steps. Sessions in everyday settings let families practice skills where they are used.

  • In-home
  • School-based
  • Medicaid
  • Telehealth

Aim Higher ABA

Listed
Decatur, GA

We provide ABA therapy across metro Atlanta at home, at school, and at our clinic on Clairmont Road in Decatur. Every setting follows one treatment plan written by the child's BCBA, so goals stay consistent wherever sessions take place.

Dogwood Autism Services - Decatur

Listed
Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 2-5

Our Lithonia location, at 5280 Snapfinger Park Dr. in Decatur, provides early intensive behavior intervention for children 1 to 7 years old with autism. We use natural environment teaching and the least restrictive interventions, with caregiver coaching, social skills, and school readiness built in. Care is available in the office, at home, and in the community. We accept direct fee for service and work with most out-of-network insurance plans.

Level Ahead ABA

Listed
Decatur, GA

We provide in-home ABA therapy for children and families in Georgia, with services planned around each child’s goals and daily routines. We accept Georgia Medicaid, Peach State Health Plan, Optum, EmblemHealth, Care Source, Amerigroup, Carelon, Anthem and Humana for ABA therapy. Coverage depends on plan eligibility and authorization.

  • In-home
  • Medicaid
Level Ahead ABA

Level Ahead ABA

Listed
Decatur, GA
Ages:Children

Our Decatur office on Lawrenceville Highway provides in-home and center-based ABA for children in Georgia. We help families with insurance paperwork and authorization as a care plan takes shape. The process moves from initial information through assessment and treatment planning, with next steps reviewed before services begin.

  • Center-based
  • In-home
Apollo Behavior
3

Apollo Behavior

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Children

Our Acworth center on Acworth Forest Drive provides ABA planned around each child's needs and family routines. A BCBA develops the treatment plan, with a family conversation, benefit review, and clinical assessment as part of admissions. We accept Anthem and Humana for ABA; benefits and authorization depend on the policy. Families may also explore financial-assistance resources for autism care.

  • Center-based
  • Telehealth
Apollo Behavior
3

Apollo Behavior

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Children

At our Lawrenceville center on North Brown Road, BCBAs plan individualized ABA around each child's needs, including communication, daily skills, and learning. Behavior technicians provide day-to-day teaching under BCBA oversight, while the team tracks progress. Families take part in a conversation, benefit review, and clinical assessment before treatment planning. We accept Anthem and Humana for ABA; benefits and authorization depend on the policy.

  • Center-based
  • Telehealth
Apollo Behavior

Apollo Behavior

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Children

Families in Milton and north Fulton can come to our North Alpharetta center on Deerfield Parkway for one-to-one ABA. We assess each child's strengths and support needs, then a BCBA develops an individualized program. Goals can address communication, social connection, daily routines, and readiness for learning. During intake, we review benefits before care is planned.

  • Center-based
  • Telehealth
Behavior Frontiers
3

Behavior Frontiers

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 0-6

Our Smyrna center runs a weekday, full-day ABA program for early learners under age 6. A BCBA develops and supervises each child's program, while RBTs provide direct teaching in therapy rooms, a sensory gym, and play areas. Families can take part in two guidance sessions each month. We are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

  • Center-based
  • Medicaid

Benchmark Human Services

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 0-21

Benchmark Human Services offers ABA support for children and teens with autism in Georgia, including Savannah. Families can ask about behavioral therapy, social skills work, group therapy, and caregiver training. Services are offered across multiple Georgia communities instead of through a single Savannah clinic.

BlueSprig

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 0-18

Our Smyrna center at 1155 Concord Rd SE, Suite 220, is open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 6 PM. BCBAs and RBTs provide ABA at the center, at home, and in the community, with school-based sessions when clinically appropriate. New families join Sprouts (ages 0 to 4) or Sprigs (ages 4 to 6), and we offer family guidance and a free consultation. We accept BCBS, Aetna, TRICARE, Cigna, Humana, United Healthcare, and Medicaid.

  • Center-based
  • Community-based
  • Medicaid
  • Telehealth
Butterfly Effects

Butterfly Effects

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Children

We provide in-home ABA therapy in Smyrna, where most of our services take place in the family's home. Families can observe sessions, give feedback to our staff, and take part, while therapy builds functional communication and age-appropriate social skills. We are BHCOE accredited and accept most insurance providers, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Tricare, and United Healthcare.

  • In-home
Butterfly Effects

Butterfly Effects

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 2-12

Our Sandy Springs center offers full-day early-intervention ABA for children ages 2 to 6 and after-school ABA for ages 6 to 12. RBTs work one-to-one on school readiness, communication, social interaction, and motor skills. Pretend-play, sensory, gross-motor, and language-rich spaces give children room to practice. We work with most insurance providers.

  • Center-based
  • Early intervention
Circle City ABA
4

Circle City ABA

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Children

At our Marietta center on Franklin Gateway, families can use the playroom and therapy rooms for direct and group ABA. We also provide social-skills therapy, parent training, and behavior consultation. Speech therapy is available on site through our partnership with Leap for children receiving ABA. We accept private insurance, TRICARE, Georgia Medicaid through GAMMIS, and other state funding or grants, including Peach State.

  • Center-based
  • Medicaid
  • Speech therapy

Dogwood Autism Services

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 1-7

We provide intensive early-intervention ABA for young children with autism in Atlanta, in the clinic, at home, and in the community. A BCBA oversees treatment, including natural-environment teaching and caregiver participation. Goals support communication, learning, and everyday independence. We participate with Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem/Blue Cross Blue Shield, CareSource, Cigna, Georgia Medicaid, Peach State, and UnitedHealthcare; out-of-network arrangements may also be available. Our Atlanta location is at 5163 Roswell Road.

  • Center-based
  • Community-based
  • Medicaid
  • Early intervention
Elevation Autism Center

Elevation Autism Center

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 1-5

At our Norcross center, a program supervisor works with each family on a learning plan for the child. We provide individualized, BCBA-led ABA alongside speech and occupational therapy for young children. Parents can join biweekly meetings, receive training at the clinic, and review progress reports and goals to support practice in daily routines. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

  • Center-based
  • Speech therapy
  • Occupational therapy
Elevation Autism Center

Elevation Autism Center

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Children

At our Alpharetta clinic, we provide individualized ABA for children with autism. A program supervisor works with each family to build a learning plan around the child's needs and goals. Play-based activities address communication, social interaction, and everyday living skills. Parents can join biweekly meetings, receive coaching at the clinic, and review progress reports and goals. The clinic is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

  • Center-based
Elevation Autism Center

Elevation Autism Center

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 1-5

At our Marietta clinic, we provide ABA, speech therapy, and occupational therapy for children ages 1 to 5. The team plans around communication, social, and daily-living goals, then uses play and structured teaching to practice those skills. Parents take part through regular meetings, clinic coaching, and progress reviews. Our center is at 877 Franklin Gateway SE, Suite 280, and is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

  • Center-based
  • Speech therapy
  • Occupational therapy

Flywheel Centers

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Children

Our Atlanta ABA center at 2303 Cumberland Parkway serves children with autism from 18 months through adolescence, with Georgia-licensed BCBAs writing each treatment plan. The center includes sensory integration tools and structured peer interaction. We also have an Alpharetta center on Atlantis Place and provide in-home ABA in Sandy Springs. A free consultation is the first step for new families.

  • Center-based
  • In-home
  • Medicaid
  • Telehealth
Flywheel Centers

Flywheel Centers

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Children

We provide Smyrna-area families with individualized ABA at home and at our Atlanta center at 2303 Cumberland Parkway; our Alpharetta clinic is another Georgia option. Georgia-licensed BCBAs develop plans around the child and family's needs, with goals for social, communication, and everyday skills. Intake gathers information about the child and guides assessment and service planning.

  • Center-based
  • In-home
  • Medicaid
  • Telehealth
Hopebridge
2

Hopebridge

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 1-3

Families in Marietta can use our Kennesaw center for ABA, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, feeding support, caregiver guidance, and autism testing. We plan ABA around each child, while the wider pediatric team supports communication, daily living, feeding, and developmental needs. In Georgia, our ABA payer list includes Georgia Medicaid, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna/Evernorth, Humana, Kaiser Permanente, and UnitedHealthcare. Benefits and authorization vary by plan.

  • Center-based
  • Medicaid
  • Telehealth
  • Evaluations
Hopebridge Autism Therapy Center
2

Hopebridge Autism Therapy Center

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 1-10

Hopebridge opened its Fayetteville center so families in Fayette County could get full autism care in one place. Instead of juggling ABA, speech, and occupational therapy at different locations, kids from 15 months through early elementary can receive a coordinated plan under one roof. The team uses a 360 Care model that blends applied behavior analysis with speech, OT, feeding support, and family guidance. Center hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 to 6. Most major insurance plans and Georgia Medicaid are accepted, and diagnostic evaluations are available to help families get started sooner.

  • Center-based
  • Medicaid
  • Telehealth
  • Evaluations
Positive Behavior Services

Positive Behavior Services

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Ages 1-21

We provide ABA therapy in Fayetteville and other Georgia communities, including Fayette, Coweta, and Fulton counties. Sessions can take place in homes, schools, and daycares for individuals ages 18 months through 21 years. Caregivers can join monthly parent training over Zoom, and families can work with our Family Resource Navigator.

  • In-home
  • School-based
  • Medicaid
Propel Autism

Propel Autism

Listed
Serving Decatur, GA
Ages:Up to 8 years

Propel Autism in Marietta serves children up to 8 years old with ABA therapy and puts the whole family at the center of care. Their clinicians conduct assessments and build personalized treatment plans. The Marietta clinic is designed for safe play and learning with gym, toy rooms, and creative spaces. They accept Medicaid, Peach State, Amerigroup, CareSource, Anthem BCBS, United Healthcare, Optum, Aetna, Tricare, and Cigna.

  • Center-based
  • Medicaid

Decatur family guide

ABA Therapy in Decatur, GA: What Families Should Know

Decatur families live a short drive from two major autism diagnostic centers, the Emory Autism Center and Marcus Autism Center, and ABA therapy here runs in clinics, in homes across central DeKalb, and through parent coaching by video. Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids families get ABA through a Georgia Families plan, and private plans regulated by Georgia must cover it through age 20 under O.C.G.A. 33-24-59.10. For autism concerns under age 3, call DeKalb Public Health’s Babies Can’t Wait office on Winn Way; from age 3, City Schools of Decatur or the DeKalb County School District evaluates for preschool services.

ABA therapy options in Decatur

Autism evaluations

The Emory Autism Center on Shoup Court and Marcus Autism Center on Briarcliff Road are both a short drive up Clairmont Road or North Decatur Road. Being close does not shorten the waitlist, so request both the week you have concerns.

Center-based ABA

Decatur parents often weigh clinics in Avondale Estates, Tucker, North Druid Hills, and the Perimeter area. Compare drive time on Scott Boulevard and Lawrenceville Highway at the after-school hour you would actually book, not at noon.

In-home ABA

Home programs reach Oakhurst, Winnona Park, and the neighborhoods off Columbia Drive and Memorial Drive. Technician coverage is set by ZIP code, so ask whether the provider staffs 30030, 30032, or 30033 today, not someday.

School and daycare support

Inside city limits, children attend City Schools of Decatur, and preschoolers screen at College Heights Early Childhood Learning Center. Ask whether the BCBA will visit a Decatur preschool or coordinate with your child’s IEP team.

Telehealth parent coaching

Video coaching fits families who ride MARTA or juggle one car. Ask the BCBA to schedule parent sessions on a fixed weekday so they actually happen.

How to start ABA therapy in Decatur

  1. 1

    Confirm the diagnosis and coverage

    Insurers and Georgia Medicaid authorize ABA after a licensed physician or psychologist diagnoses autism. Call the member number on your card and ask whether ABA needs prior authorization.

  2. 2

    Compare Decatur providers

    Use the provider list on this page to check settings, ages served, and insurance. Shortlist two or three that fit your schedule and location.

  3. 3

    Ask the intake questions that matter

    Ask about current intake timing, in-network status for your exact plan, who writes the treatment plan, and how parent training works.

  4. 4

    Get matched if you want help

    Tell us your child's age, coverage, and preferred setting. We share options in and around Decatur that fit. It is free for families.

Take the free autism screening quiz

Does insurance cover ABA therapy in Decatur?

Medicaid in DeKalb County

A DeKalb County child on Georgia Medicaid or PeachCare for Kids receives care through a Georgia Families plan: Amerigroup, CareSource, or Peach State Health Plan. Georgia Medicaid pays for ABA as Adaptive Behavior Services for autistic members under 21, once a licensed physician, psychologist, or other licensed professional documents the diagnosis. The provider requests prior authorization for the assessment and the treatment plan, and approvals last six months. Georgia Families answers plan questions at 888-423-6765.

Private insurance

Georgia’s autism law, O.C.G.A. 33-24-59.10, requires state-regulated plans, including the state employees’ health benefit plan, to cover autism diagnosis and medically necessary ABA for anyone 20 or younger, with no visit limits and an allowed ABA cap of $35,000 a year. Employers with 10 or fewer workers are exempt, and self-funded plans at large private employers answer to federal ERISA rules instead.

Plans Decatur families often ask about:

  • Amerigroup Community Care
  • CareSource Georgia
  • Peach State Health Plan
  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
  • Aetna
  • Kaiser Permanente Georgia
  • UnitedHealthcare
  • State Health Benefit Plan

Georgia’s autism insurance law (O.C.G.A. 33-24-59.10)

What state-regulated insurers cannot do

  • Refuse to cover autism assessments, evaluations, or tests by a licensed physician or licensed psychologist for a covered person 20 or younger.
  • Leave out applied behavior analysis that the plan finds medically necessary under its established criteria.
  • Limit the number of visits for autism treatment.
  • Count payments for care unrelated to autism toward the yearly ABA cap.

What still applies

  • The coverage requirement ends after age 20, and a plan may cap ABA at $35,000 a year.
  • ABA must be provided or supervised by a behavior analyst certified by a national board, such as a BCBA.
  • Plans may use deductibles, coinsurance, and reasonable limits that fit the law, and may ask a physician or psychologist to show ongoing medical necessity at least once a year.
  • Plans offered by employers with 10 or fewer employees are exempt, and marketplace plans do not have to cover autism benefits beyond federal essential health benefits.
  • Self-funded employer plans follow federal ERISA rules instead.

Getting an autism diagnosis in Decatur

Decatur families have two major autism diagnostic centers within a few miles, which helps with the drive but not with the wait. For a toddler, call DeKalb Babies Can’t Wait while you wait for a diagnostic slot. For a child 3 or older, request the medical evaluation that insurers and Medicaid require, and ask the school district for its own educational evaluation in parallel.

Under age 3

Babies Can’t Wait, DeKalb Public Health

Early intervention for DeKalb County children from birth to 3 with a developmental delay, based at 445 Winn Way in Decatur. Parents and child care providers can call to refer; health care providers send the screening and referral form.

404-294-3814 Website

Evaluation

Emory Autism Center

Diagnostic assessments for children 17 and younger, at 1551 Shoup Court in Decatur. Parents can start through the Request Services link and join the waitlist; Emory’s accepted insurance list is limited, so check it first.

404-727-8350 Website

Evaluation

Marcus Autism Center (Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta)

Assessment and diagnosis at 1920 Briarcliff Road. Children 3 and older have a one-hour parent interview, then a testing day several weeks later. You need a referral from your child’s doctor.

404-785-9400 Website

School districts serving Decatur families

Public schools evaluate children from age 3 at no cost through Child Find. ABA providers can coordinate with your child's IEP team. Compare special needs schools in Decatur too.

Autism in Decatur by the numbers

1 in 31
8-year-olds identified with autism across 16 CDC monitoring sites

CDC Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, 2022 data published in 2025.

About 5,610
Estimated autistic children in DeKalb County

An estimate: 174,042 county residents under 18 divided by 31, not a count of diagnoses.

6,750
Children under 18 living in Decatur
3.5%
Decatur children under 18 with a disability

Census disability questions cover hearing, vision, cognitive, mobility, self-care, and independent living, so this is broader than autism.

98.8%
Decatur children under 19 with health insurance
5.3%
Decatur residents age 5 and up who speak Spanish at home

Ask providers whether they have Spanish-speaking BCBAs or technicians.

$139,397
Median household income in Decatur
2.0%
Decatur children under 18 living below the poverty line

Many of these children qualify for Medicaid or CHIP, which cover ABA.

Sources: CDC ADDM Network (2022 surveillance year, MMWR April 2025); U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020-2024 5-year estimates (tables B01001, B18101, B27010, C16001, B19013, B17020) for Decatur city and DeKalb County. The county autism figure is an estimate, not a count.

Decatur local numbers

What ABA therapy costs in Decatur

Private-pay ABA in Georgia typically runs $95 to $160 an hour. The table multiplies that range by weekly hours (hours x 52 weeks / 12 months) to show a monthly bill before insurance. This is an illustration, not a quote: your bill depends on authorized hours, the mix of technician and BCBA time, and what your plan pays.

Estimated monthly private-pay ABA cost in Decatur by weekly hours
Hours per week At $95/hr At $160/hr
10 hours $4,117/mo $6,933/mo
20 hours $8,233/mo $13,867/mo
30 hours $12,350/mo $20,800/mo
Monthly private-pay ABA cost at 10, 20, and 30 hours a week in Georgia: 10 hours $4,117 to $6,933; 20 hours $8,233 to $13,867; 30 hours $12,350 to $20,800. 10 hrs/week $4,117 $6,933 20 hrs/week $8,233 $13,867 30 hrs/week $12,350 $20,800 Low end ($95/hr) High end ($160/hr)
Private-pay monthly cost before insurance, Georgia hourly range.

Estimate your cost with insurance using your deductible, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximum.

How long is the ABA wait in Georgia?

In January to March 2022, TRICARE families in Georgia waited an average of 53 days from a verified referral to their first ABA appointment, 25 days longer than TRICARE's 28-day access standard for specialty care. This figure covers military families only, comes from one 2022 snapshot, and does not promise a wait for any family today. See every published ABA wait time.

Georgia TRICARE average wait of 53 days from referral to first ABA appointment, compared with the 28-day access standard. Georgia average 53 days 28-day standard 28 days

Source: Defense Health Agency, TRICARE Comprehensive Autism Care Demonstration report to Congress, Table 3 (April 2023; data January 1 to March 31, 2022).

Decatur kids compared with Georgia and the US

Decatur children compared with Georgia and the United States
Measure Decatur Georgia United States
Children under 18 with a disability 3.5%5.1%4.9%
Children under 19 with health insurance 98.8%93.1%94.5%
Children under 18 below the poverty line 2.0%18.3%16.1%
Children under 18 with a disability
Children under 18 with a disability: Decatur 3.5%, Georgia 5.1%, United States 4.9%. Decatur 3.5% Georgia 5.1% United States 4.9%
Children under 19 with health insurance
Children under 19 with health insurance: Decatur 98.8%, Georgia 93.1%, United States 94.5%. Decatur 98.8% Georgia 93.1% United States 94.5%
Children under 18 below the poverty line
Children under 18 below the poverty line: Decatur 2.0%, Georgia 18.3%, United States 16.1%. Decatur 2.0% Georgia 18.3% United States 16.1%

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020-2024 5-year estimates (ACS 2024 5-year), tables B18101, B27010, and B17020, via Census Reporter. Census disability questions cover hearing, vision, cognitive, mobility, self-care, and independent living, so the disability rate is broader than autism.

Georgia autism identification vs the US

Georgia public schools served 13.90 children per 1,000 ages 5 to 21 under the IDEA autism category in 2024-25, about 1 in 72, below the national rate of about 1 in 64. School identification counts only children served in special education under the autism category, so it runs lower than the CDC's clinical estimate of 1 in 31 eight-year-olds. Compare autism rates in every state.

IDEA autism identification, 2024-25: Georgia 13.90 per 1,000 children ages 5 to 21, United States about 1 in 64. Georgia 13.90 per 1,000 United States about 1 in 64

Source: U.S. Department of Education, IDEA Section 618 child count, school year 2024-25, divided by Census Bureau Vintage 2025 population ages 5 to 21.

Decatur autism resources for families

Advocacy & navigation

Parent to Parent of Georgia

Georgia’s Parent Training and Information Center, offering families free guidance on special education and services. Local line 770-451-5484.

800-229-2038 Website

Early intervention

DeKalb Public Health Babies Can’t Wait

Birth-to-3 early intervention for DeKalb County. Families can also refer at 404-294-3700.

404-294-3814 Website

Diagnosis & evaluation

Emory Autism Center

Decatur-based center offering diagnostic assessments, behavior support and ABA, school-based consultation, counseling, and adult social programs.

404-727-8350 Website

Diagnosis & evaluation

Marcus Autism Center

Autism evaluation and treatment from a Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta subsidiary, open weekdays 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

404-785-9400 Website

Medicaid

Georgia Families

Find out which Georgia Families plan your child is in or request a change. For other Medicaid questions call 877-423-4746.

888-423-6765 Website

Developmental disability services

DBHDD Region 3 Field Office

DeKalb’s regional DBHDD office, on Panthersville Road in Decatur. Contact it about state developmental disability services.

404-244-5050 Website

More questions about ABA therapy in Decatur

Does my Decatur child go through City Schools of Decatur or DeKalb County schools?

It depends on whether your home is inside Decatur city limits, not on the Decatur mailing address. City residents use City Schools of Decatur, which screens preschoolers at College Heights (404-370-4480). Many 30032, 30033, and 30034 addresses are unincorporated DeKalb, served by the DeKalb County School District’s Preschool Diagnostics Team (678-874-6026). Check your property record before you call.

Should a Decatur family choose Emory or Marcus for an autism evaluation?

Try both. Marcus needs a doctor’s referral, so ask your pediatrician to send it. Emory lets parents start the request themselves through its Request Services link. Whichever center offers the earlier date, keep the other spot until the report is in hand, and check that the center accepts your insurance before the visit.

Can a 19-year-old in Decatur still get ABA through Georgia Medicaid?

Yes, if the person is under 21, has a documented autism diagnosis, and the treatment is medically necessary. Georgia Medicaid covers Adaptive Behavior Services under its EPSDT benefit for that age range. Many ABA programs focus on young children, so ask each provider whether it serves older teens and what goals it builds for daily living, work, and community skills.

How many hours of ABA therapy does a child need each week?

It depends on the treatment plan. Focused programs that target a few skills often run 10 to 25 hours a week, while comprehensive programs for young children can run 30 to 40 hours. The supervising BCBA recommends hours after an assessment, and your insurer or Medicaid plan authorizes them.

What is the difference between a BCBA and an RBT?

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) holds a graduate degree, assesses your child, writes and adjusts the treatment plan, and supervises the team. A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) delivers most one-to-one sessions under that BCBA's supervision.

How long does ABA therapy take to show results?

Families often see early changes in the first few months, and the BCBA reviews progress data against goals at least every six months, which is also when most insurers reauthorize hours. Ask any provider how they share progress data with parents.

Do I need a referral to start ABA therapy?

Most plans require an autism diagnosis and a prescription or referral for ABA from a physician or psychologist, followed by prior authorization. Some commercial plans skip the referral step, so check your policy before your first intake call.

Reviewed 2026-10-22 against linked state and provider sources.

Planning guides

Plan your next ABA provider call in Decatur

Use these guides before you ask about intake, insurance, school coordination, parent training, or waitlists.

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Why Choose ABA Therapy in Decatur?

Decatur is one of the most established therapy markets on Atlanta's east side, with strong access to providers in Decatur, Avondale Estates, Tucker, North Druid Hills, and nearby Atlanta. Families here often have a good mix of clinic-based, home-based, and school-support ABA options.

Comprehensive Autism Therapy Services in Decatur

ABA providers serving Decatur commonly offer early intervention, center-based care, in-home sessions, parent coaching, and collaboration with public and private schools. Because Decatur sits close to major pediatric systems and several provider clusters, families often compare east-side metro options before choosing a center. When exploring special needs educational programs alongside behavioral therapy, families in Decatur often find that coordinated services produce the best outcomes.

Understanding Insurance Coverage for ABA Therapy in Decatur

Georgia's autism coverage law, O.C.G.A. 33-24-59.10, was strengthened by Ava's Law in 2015 and expanded again in 2018. It requires state-regulated health insurance policies and HMO contracts, including the State Health Benefit Plan, to cover autism for covered individuals age 20 and under. Plans must cover diagnostic assessments by a licensed physician or psychologist and medically necessary applied behavior analysis, which a nationally board certified behavior analyst must provide or supervise. Plans may not limit the number of visits but may cap ABA at $35,000 per year, and payments for care unrelated to autism do not count toward that cap. A licensed physician or psychologist may be asked to confirm ongoing medical necessity at least once a year. The law does not apply to plans offered by employers with 10 or fewer employees, exchange plans do not have to cover benefits beyond the federal essential health benefits, and self-funded employer plans follow federal ERISA rules instead. Georgia Medicaid covers Adaptive Behavior Services, its name for ABA, for members under 21 with a documented autism diagnosis from a licensed physician or psychologist, including children in Georgia Families plans and the Katie Beckett program. No NOW or COMP waiver is needed. Prior authorization is required for all services, with the assessment and the treatment plan authorized separately. Families seeking additional support may find valuable resources through Georgia's special needs resource directory.

Georgia Autism Support Programs and Regulations

Babies Can't Wait, run by the Georgia Department of Public Health, is Georgia's early intervention program under Part C of IDEA. It serves children from birth to the third birthday, regardless of income, who have a diagnosed condition likely to cause delay or a confirmed developmental delay. Anyone can refer a child by sending the state's Child Health Referral Form to the local referral contact for the county where the family lives, or by phone, email, fax, letter or in person. Evaluation and service coordination are free; other services use a sliding fee scale based on ability to pay, and Medicaid and private insurance are billed with the family's permission. After the third birthday, the local school system handles Child Find and special education evaluation. For longer term support, the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities operates the NOW and COMP Medicaid waivers for people with an intellectual disability or a closely related developmental disability, such as autism, that substantially limits functioning. Applicants who appear eligible go on a planning list, and funding goes to those with the highest need rather than by time on the list. When exploring specialized educational programs to complement ABA therapy, Decatur families have access to a comprehensive network of support services.

Selecting the right ABA therapy provider in Decatur is an important decision that can significantly impact your child's progress. The 38 therapy providers serving the Decatur area each bring unique strengths, from specialized early intervention programs to school-based services and intensive behavioral support. Many Decatur providers offer comprehensive parent training, ensuring that therapeutic strategies extend seamlessly into daily life. With Georgia's strong insurance protections and regulatory framework supporting autism treatment, families in Decatur can confidently access high-quality, evidence-based ABA therapy services designed to help children reach their full potential.

Frequently Asked Questions About ABA Therapy in Decatur

Does insurance cover ABA therapy in Decatur?
Yes. Georgia's Ava's Law requires many state-regulated plans to cover ABA therapy, and Georgia Medicaid covers ABA for eligible children with autism. Families in Decatur should check whether a provider is in-network and what documentation is required for authorization.
Can I use Atlanta or Tucker providers if I live in Decatur?
Yes. Many Decatur families compare providers in Tucker, Atlanta, Brookhaven, and other east-metro areas because commute patterns and appointment times vary. Expanding the search beyond one city usually gives families more flexibility.
What age can my child start ABA in Decatur?
Many providers serving Decatur start around 18 months to 2 years for early intervention, while others focus more on preschool and school-age children. For children under 3, DeKalb Babies Can't Wait is often the first public entry point. The best next step is usually to compare a few providers and find the one that matches your child's goals and your weekly schedule.
Is there early intervention in Decatur for children under 3?
Yes. Babies Can't Wait serves DeKalb County and provides free early intervention for children from birth to age 3 with developmental delays or disabilities. DeKalb Public Health takes local intake referrals at (404) 294-3814 and (404) 294-3700. Some Decatur-area ABA centers also offer early learner programs families use as a next step after early intervention.
Are there in-home ABA options in Decatur?
Yes. In-home ABA is available in Decatur and surrounding east-metro neighborhoods. Availability depends on staffing and preferred session times, so some families start with clinic-based therapy while waiting for in-home openings.

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