Texas
Texas has the Children's Autism Program and Medicaid HCS/TxHmL waivers, though significant waitlists exist for most services.
Diagnosis & Early Intervention
Diagnosis — Children (0–5)
Diagnosis through developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, or neurologist. HHSC manages eligibility.
Expect wait times of roughly 2-6 months for specialist evaluation in major metros. Longer in rural areas. for a specialist evaluation.
Screening is typically recommended starting at Screening at 18 months. Formal diagnosis as early as 18-24 months..
Key legislation
- Texas Human Resources Code — Texas Human Resources Code § 320.0001 et seq.
- Texas Insurance Code — Texas Insurance Code § 1369.001 et seq.
Therapies & Interventions
The following therapy types are available in this area. Where coverage is noted, families may access services through public funding streams without paying full private rates.
School-Based Supports
- IEP services through public schools at no cost
- Texas Education Agency provides special education framework
- Inclusion-first model with supports
- Behavioral support services in schools
Government Programs
Early Childhood Intervention (ECI)
Free developmental services for children birth to 3 with delays or disabilities.
Eligibility: Children birth to 3 with documented developmental delay.
Visit program website →Funding & Insurance
Families in this area can access the following funding mechanisms for autism-related services:
- Medicaid EPSDT for medically necessary services
- Children's Autism Program for ages 3-15
- Mandated private insurance coverage for children under 10
- ECI free for children birth to 3
Respite Care
HCS waiver includes respite hours when slot available. Private respite agencies also available.
Therapies Across Age Groups
School-Age (6–12)
Teens (13–17)
School Supports
School-Age (6–12)
- Full IEP services under IDEA Part B
- 504 plans for accommodations
- Behavioral support services
- Inclusion supports in mainstream classrooms
Teens (13–17)
- Transition planning at age 14 in IEP
- Career Technical Education
- Dual enrollment options
Government Programs
Texas Children's Autism Program
Provides focused ABA services to children aged 3-15 through state-funded clinics. Program has limited capacity with long waitlists.
Eligibility: Children ages 3-15 with ASD diagnosis. Income-based for some slots.
HCS (Home and Community-based Services) Waiver
Medicaid HCBS waiver providing residential assistance, respite, and employment supports for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Eligibility: Must meet institutional level of care. Significant waitlist (often 10+ years).
Visit program website →Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC)
Manages autism services and developmental disability programs across the state.
Eligibility: Varies by program.
Visit program website →Funding & Insurance
Texas Medicaid
Covers ABA and other autism therapies under EPSDT for eligible children.
Mandated Insurance Coverage
Texas mandates insurance coverage for ASD diagnosis and treatment for children under 10.
HCS Waiver
Medicaid HCBS waiver for residential and community-based services. Long waitlists.
Transition & Adult Services
Teens (13–17)
Texas requires transition planning starting at age 14 in IEP. Goals address employment, education, and independent living.
Adults (18+)
Texas has significant waitlists for adult services. HCS and TxHmL waivers have 10+ year waits. Families should apply for waitlist as early as possible. Private residential and day programs available but expensive.
Respite & Family Support
Respite Care
HCS waiver includes respite hours when slot available. Private respite agencies also available.
Immigrant & Multilingual Services
Texas Medicaid covers eligible children regardless of citizenship. Emergency services available to all. HCS waiver available to eligible individuals regardless of immigration status.
Languages available through programs:
- Spanish-language services widely available
- HHSC provides interpreter services in multiple languages
- Bilingual evaluation teams in major metros
Cultural & community resources:
- Multicultural family support programs in major cities
- Immigrant service organizations provide disability navigation
- Community health centers with bilingual staff