Family health

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) 

Every child is different — here’s what to know and how to support yours. 

Mom playing with two kids.

ASD is not an illness. It means that your child’s brain is developing differently. Every child with autism is unique, with their own combination of strengths and challenges.  

Children with autism may show strengths such as attention to detail, strong memory skills, honesty, or creativity. They may also experience challenges with communication, social interaction, sensory differences, or repetitive movements or routines.  

Reviewing the Diagnostic Report  

After a diagnosis, your provider will usually give you a diagnostic report. This report outlines your child’s strengths, areas of need, and recommended support.  

Understanding the Treatment Process  

  • If your child has already received a diagnosis, you can contact your health plan using the number on the back of your card to ask questions and review treatment options and community resources.  
  • If a diagnostic assessment has not yet been completed, your pediatrician may refer your child to a specialist for further evaluation. Your plan can help you locate a provider if needed.  

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

ABA is an evidence-based option that may be recommended for some children with autism. 

ABA programs are individualized and adjusted over time to meet your child’s needs.  

What this can look like  

  • An initial assessment by an ABA provider  
  • Your provider sends a plan to your insurance for approval  
  • Ongoing therapy with regular progress reviews  
  • Reauthorization of services, often every 6 months (depending on your plan)  

ABA programs include caregiver involvement. Training can help ensure that skills learned in therapy can be practiced at home and in the community.  

When life gets in the way, do your best to keep sessions consistent — your care team can help you make a plan that feels realistic for your family.  

Other therapies and supports  

Children often benefit from personalized support, including different therapies that develop communication, daily living, learning, and emotional skills. Your care team can help you prioritize what to start with first. Many families find it helps to start with one or two supports that match their child’s current needs and your family’s daily rhythm. Your care team can help you sort through options and decide what to try first.  

Your role as a parent or caregiver  

When it comes to autism, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach. You’ll be able to combine lots of different strategies to help your child reach their full potential and live a happy, healthy, fulfilling life. But there is one thing that all these therapies have in common: Parents and caregivers play a big role. Starting services when you’re ready and able can make a meaningful difference. Trust your instincts, you know your child best.  

Finding support and community  

Community support can ease stress and help you feel understood. Start by connecting with your healthcare team and local resources for practical help like coverage questions and finding providers. National resources offer education and tools whenever you need them.    

  • Local support: Ask your pediatrician about parent support groups and family resource centers in your area.  
  • National (U.S.): Autism Speaks – information, resources, and a response team available by phone or email autismspeaks.org  
  • National (U.S.): Autism Society of America – nationwide resources, helpline, and local affiliates autismsociety.org 

If you have questions about behavioral health or autism-related coverage, benefits, providers, or next steps call the Mental Health/Substance Abuse number on the back of your member ID card to be connected to the right team.