When it comes to supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy has long been recognized as one of the most effective, evidence-based treatments available. The U.S. Surgeon General has even cited ABA therapy as the gold standard of care, improving social, communication, and behavioral outcomes for countless children across the country.
But as of August 1st, 2025, families in Nebraska who depend on Medicaid to access ABA therapy are facing a harsh new reality: state legislators have reduced Medicaid reimbursement rates for ABA providers by more than 50%.
This sudden and significant cut has left families and providers alike scrambling to adjust and, in some cases, to make heartbreaking decisions about their children’s care.
What the Rate Cuts Mean for Nebraska Families
To understand the impact, it helps to know how ABA therapy is structured. ABA programs are typically delivered by Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). These professionals spend hours every day working directly with children to build skills in communication, social interaction, daily living, and self-regulation.
When Medicaid reimbursement rates are reduced by half, it becomes nearly impossible for many providers, especially those with smaller teams or higher operating costs to sustain their programs. This is especially true for organizations headquartered outside of Nebraska that rely on uniform national pricing models.
In the past several weeks, multiple ABA companies (specifically ones headquartered out of state) have publicly announced that they will no longer serve Medicaid clients in Nebraska, leaving families uncertain about where to turn next. For parents of children who depend on consistent therapy to maintain progress, this disruption is more than logistical, it’s emotional and deeply personal.
Behaven Kids: Rooted in Nebraska, Here to Stay
For nearly 25 years, Behaven Kids has been proud to serve Nebraska families with compassionate, clinically sound behavioral health care. Founded right here in Nebraska, we have always been committed to supporting the communities of Omaha, Lincoln, and beyond, and that commitment is not changing.
While other providers may be forced to pull out, Behaven Kids continues to accept and welcome Medicaid families. Our CEO has been clear: Behaven Kids is here to stay for ABA therapy in Nebraska.
Our team understands that change can feel overwhelming, especially when it affects your child’s care. That’s why we’re focused not only on continuing services, but also on helping families navigate transitions smoothly. We’ve simplified our intake process to make switching providers as seamless as possible, with dedicated staff ready to walk parents through every step.
More Than ABA: A Whole-Family Approach
One of the reasons Behaven Kids can remain sustainable during this time is our multifaceted model of care. Unlike single-focus providers, we offer three core programs that allow us to meet children and families where they are:
- Specialized Day Program (SDP): A daycare or school alternative that integrates behavioral support throughout the day. This setting helps children learn and thrive in an environment that’s both structured and therapeutic, addressing challenging behaviors while building readiness for school or community settings.
- Mental Health Therapy: Licensed clinicians provide individual and family therapy to address emotional regulation, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health needs that often accompany behavioral challenges.
- ABA Therapy: Our BCBA-led ABA programs are tailored to each child’s goals, using play-based and evidence-driven interventions to foster communication, independence, and growth.
This integrated approach enables Behaven Kids to provide stability even in the face of industry-wide changes — and to ensure that Nebraska families never lose access to care because of insurance limitations.
New Expansion and Family Resource Events
Behaven Kids recently expanded our programming at We Rock the Spectrum – Omaha, a sensory-friendly play environment that’s now integrated into our clients’ daily ABA therapy sessions. This partnership allows children to build skills through movement, play, and exploration, while families enjoy the reassurance of a safe, supportive environment.
To further support parents navigating the Medicaid changes, Behaven Kids is hosting a Family Resource & Q&A Night on October 23rd from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at We Rock the Spectrum.
During this event, families can:
- Learn more about the Medicaid rate cuts and what they mean for access to ABA care
- Hear directly from our clinical and leadership teams about the future of ABA services in Nebraska
- Get step-by-step guidance through Behaven’s simple intake process
- Enjoy free childcare and playtime for their children, supervised by trained staff
This event is free to attend, but RSVPs are encouraged so we can plan for adequate staff and materials.
Continuing to Serve — and to Advocate
While Behaven Kids remains steady in our mission, we recognize that these cuts represent more than just financial strain — they signal a broader need for advocacy and awareness. Access to behavioral health care is essential for children with Autism and their families, and policies that jeopardize that access have long-term consequences for our communities.
At Behaven Kids, we’re not only committed to providing care but also to standing with families in the fight to preserve it.
If your child’s current ABA provider is discontinuing Medicaid services, you don’t have to start over alone. Our team is ready to welcome you with open arms and help your child continue growing, learning, and thriving right here in Nebraska.
To learn more or RSVP for the Family Resource & Q&A Night, visit https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/WNDAfG
Behaven Kids — Helping Children and Families Thrive for 25 Years and Counting.