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Does Medicaid Cover ABA Therapy in Maine?

Published April 8, 2026

Yes — MaineCare (Maine Medicaid) covers ABA therapy for children and teens under 21 with an autism diagnosis. Maine primarily delivers Medicaid through a fee-for-service model, and Portland has the highest concentration of ABA providers in the state. Here's how families can access coverage.

Key takeaways

  • MaineCare covers ABA for all children under 21 with autism
  • Maine uses a primarily fee-for-service model — you work directly with MaineCare-enrolled providers
  • Maine's commercial insurance mandate covers children through age 20
  • Portland and southern Maine have the largest ABA provider networks
  • Adults may access services through the Maine HCBS Waiver for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities

How MaineCare covers ABA therapy

Unlike many states, Maine's Medicaid program (MaineCare) primarily uses a fee-for-service model rather than managed care for most enrollees. This means you work directly with MaineCare-enrolled ABA providers rather than going through a separate insurance plan. The provider bills MaineCare directly on your behalf.

To receive ABA therapy, you need a MaineCare-enrolled provider who is licensed or certified in Maine to deliver behavioral health services for autism.

Maine's autism insurance mandate

Maine law (24-A MRSA § 2756) requires fully-insured commercial health plans to cover ABA therapy for individuals with autism through age 20. This is one of the higher age caps in New England. Coverage includes diagnostic evaluation and treatment services.

How to access ABA through MaineCare

  1. Confirm your MaineCare enrollment at maine.gov/dhhs/ofe/programs/mainecare or call 1-800-977-6740.
  2. Get an autism diagnosis from a licensed psychologist, physician, or psychiatrist.
  3. Find a MaineCare-enrolled ABA provider using FindABA or by calling the MaineCare helpline.
  4. Prior authorization may be required — your provider will submit this on your behalf.
  5. Services begin at no cost to you.

Maine resources

Find Maine ABA providers that accept MaineCare

FindABA lists ABA providers across Maine showing accepted insurance plans including MaineCare and commercial insurers.

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