Autism Resources in Washington
A statewide guide to autism services across Washington — for families in Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Bellingham, and every community between.
Washington has built one of the more developed state autism services systems in the country — though developed doesn't mean easy to navigate. Apple Health (Medicaid) covers ABA through the Centers of Excellence model. Private insurance is required to cover autism treatment without visit limits up to age 21. The Developmental Disabilities Administration runs five Medicaid waivers, including one specifically for autism support. And early intervention through ESIT serves children birth to three regardless of family income.
This page walks through how the pieces fit together — and where the real gaps are, including the substantial waiting lists for waiver services that many Washington families encounter.
We've written this as a starting point. Washington readers who know specifics better than we do — tell us what we got wrong or missed.
Find your city
Jump to a local guide with providers, schools, and activities near you.
Washington at a glance
Early intervention program
Insurance mandate
Medicaid waivers (5)
- Basic Plus
- Core
- Community Protection
- Children's Intensive In-Home Behavioral Support (CIIBS)
- Individual and Family Services (IFS)
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Support organizations
Statewide autism-specific advocacy organization. Free Parent Partners service for insurance navigation, ABA access, and benefit appeals. Significant focus on insurance and Medicaid issues.
Informing FamiliesDDA-affiliated resource for Washington families navigating developmental disability services. Information on waivers, eligibility, and services.
Northwest Autism CenterSpokane-based nonprofit serving the inland Northwest with diagnostic services, therapy, training, and community programs.
Disability Rights Washington (DRW)Federally designated protection and advocacy organization for Washingtonians with disabilities, including legal advocacy for serious cases.
Parent to Parent WashingtonStatewide parent-to-parent connection network with regional coordinators in most Washington counties.
Open Doors for Multicultural FamiliesServing culturally and linguistically diverse families of children with disabilities across Washington, with particular focus on King County.
Autism Society of WashingtonState affiliate of the national Autism Society with chapters and community programming across Washington.
Autism resources, in your inbox
Join 1,000+ families. Free, weekly.
Win our monthly sensory toy box — every subscriber is automatically entered.
No spam. Unsubscribe any time.