Over the last couple of decades, something significant has been happening in the world of autism services. More children than ever before are being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and with that increase has come a huge demand for professionals trained in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), especially Board Certified Behavior Analysts, or BCBAs.
Let’s take a closer look at how this trend is unfolding and why it matters for families and those working in the field.
Autism Diagnoses Are on the Rise
According to national data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of autism diagnoses has more than doubled in recent years. Between 2002 and 2012, there was a 121 percent increase in the prevalence of autism among 8-year-old children. This dramatic rise highlights not just an increase in the number of children affected but also a shift in how autism is understood and identified. Factors contributing to the increase include improved diagnostic tools, heightened awareness among parents and educators, and broader criteria that better capture the diverse presentation of autism spectrum disorders.
As a result, more families are recognizing developmental differences earlier, and they are seeking help sooner. Pediatricians and school professionals are also playing a larger role in identifying symptoms, which contributes to earlier interventions.
This increase has naturally led many parents and caregivers to seek out effective therapies. One of the most well-known and widely used approaches is Applied Behavior Analysis, often referred to as ABA therapy.
ABA Therapy Works
ABA has been studied for decades and is backed by a strong body of evidence. A recent review of 770 studies by researchers Magiati, Charman, and Howlin found that ABA can help children with autism make real improvements. These include gains in communication, thinking skills, and everyday tasks like getting dressed or brushing their teeth.The review not only reaffirmed the effectiveness of ABA but also emphasized that outcomes can be even more meaningful when interventions are started early and tailored to the individual needs of each child.
ABA focuses on understanding the function of behavior, reinforcing positive behaviors, and reducing behaviors that interfere with learning or quality of life. Families often report increased independence, better social interaction, and improved ability to participate in daily routines when their child receives consistent ABA therapy.
It’s no surprise that families want access to these kinds of results. And that’s where BCBAs come in.
More BCBAs Than Ever Before
To meet the growing demand for ABA therapy, the number of certified BCBAs has increased significantly. Between 2018 and 2021, there was a 65 percent jump in certified professionals. This is encouraging progress, and it shows that the field is working hard to meet the needs of children and families.
The growth of the BCBA workforce is a promising sign that the behavioral health field is responding to national needs. More certification programs are being offered through universities and online, and the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) continues to strengthen credentialing standards to ensure high-quality practice.
But not everyone has access to a BCBA. A study by Yingling, Ruther, and Dubuque found that while more professionals are available overall, certain parts of the country still struggle with limited access. This is especially true in rural areas, where families may need to travel long distances to find care.
For example, some families may be placed on waitlists for months or may have to drive several hours for therapy appointments. This uneven distribution highlights the importance of investing not just in growing the workforce, but in ensuring those professionals are located where they are needed most. This is something Behaven Kids is currently trying to combat in Nebraska. With a segment of the Nebraska population looking for behavioral care in rural areas, Behaven is looking for alternate ways to offer therapy beyond the larger cities.
Another study by Zhang and Cummings found a similar issue. They pointed out that the number of BCBAs hasn’t kept pace with where children are actually being diagnosed. So while the workforce is growing, there are still gaps in coverage.
Their findings suggest that future efforts should prioritize workforce distribution by region and expand telehealth options to bridge gaps in care. Telehealth models have already begun to increase access in some underserved communities, but more support and infrastructure are needed to make these options widely effective.
How Policy Affects Access to ABA
One important factor in all of this is public policy. In states where laws require insurance companies to cover autism-related therapies, more children are able to get behavioral services. A study by Barry, Epstein, and Marcus found that states with stronger insurance mandates also had higher rates of therapy use.
These mandates can be a game-changer for families. Without them, the cost of ABA therapy may be out of reach for many, as services can require multiple sessions per week and quickly become financially burdensome. Strong policies can help ensure that all children, regardless of family income, can access the care they need.
These policies don’t just help families. They also create more opportunities for professionals to enter the field and stay in it. When insurance coverage is available and reliable, more clinics can open, and more therapists can build careers in ABA.
The ripple effect of insurance mandates extends beyond immediate access. They encourage innovation, support job growth, and contribute to the overall development of more comprehensive autism service systems. As policy continues to evolve, ongoing advocacy will be necessary to protect and expand these supports.
What Happens Next?
It’s clear that we are at a turning point. Autism diagnoses are becoming more common, and families are increasingly seeking out evidence-based therapies like ABA. The good news is that the workforce is growing. But the challenge is to make sure that growth is happening in the right places and in the right ways.
To truly meet the need, we will need to focus on a few key areas. These include expanding training programs for new BCBAs, offering support for providers in underserved areas, and continuing to advocate for policies that ensure all families have access to care. Telehealth and other creative solutions may also play a role in helping close the gap.
In addition, retention of skilled providers must be a priority. Burnout in the behavioral health field is common, especially in high-demand regions. Providing mentorship, professional development, and fair compensation can help ensure that experienced professionals stay in the field and continue making a difference.
Final Thoughts
The rising number of autism diagnoses in the United States has brought with it a growing demand for highly trained professionals in ABA therapy. While we’ve made real progress in growing the BCBA workforce and expanding access, there is still work to do.
This is a call to action for educators, lawmakers, families, and providers to work together in building an accessible, sustainable system of care. As we continue to learn more about autism and the best ways to support those affected, our efforts must reflect a commitment to equity, inclusion, and quality service.
With continued investment, smart policy decisions, and a focus on equity, we can make sure that every child with autism has the opportunity to receive the support they need. The journey isn’t over, but it’s moving in the right direction—and that gives families and professionals alike a reason to stay hopeful.
