Autism Resources in Maine
A statewide guide to autism services across Maine — for families in Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, Augusta, and communities across a large, rural state.
Maine's autism services reflect its geography: services and specialists concentrate in and around Portland (the MaineHealth / Maine Medical Center system, including the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital), with Bangor as a secondary hub — and long distances and provider shortages for families in rural and northern Maine. Maine funds most autism services through MaineCare (the state's Medicaid program), which covers children's medically necessary ABA through its behavioral health benefits and EPSDT (the former Section 28 benefit was repealed and replaced in a 2026 rules overhaul — confirm current details with MaineCare), plus a statewide early intervention system (Child Development Services) and an insurance mandate.
This page walks through how the pieces fit together and where the gaps are — including being honest about rural access.
We've written this as a starting point. Maine 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.
Maine at a glance
Early intervention program
Insurance mandate
Medicaid waivers (3)
- MaineCare behavioral health benefits / EPSDT (children's ABA)
- Section 21 — Home and Community Benefits (MaineCare waiver)
- Section 29 — Support Services (MaineCare waiver)
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Support organizations
Maine's federally designated Parent Training and Information Center. Free information, referral, one-on-one support, parent-to-parent connections, and a family support navigator program for families of children with special needs.
Autism Society of Maine (ASM)Founded in 1976, Maine's Autism Society affiliate. Support groups, resource referral, information, educational conferences, and social events for autistic people and their families.
Disability Rights MaineMaine's federally designated protection and advocacy organization. Legal advocacy for Maine residents with disabilities.
Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS)The Maine DHHS office administering adult intellectual disability and autism services, including MaineCare Section 21 and 29 waivers.
Maine Developmental Disabilities CouncilState council advancing advocacy, systems change, and inclusion for Maine people with developmental disabilities.
Get our free summer guide
Sensory-smart, low-pressure, and actually fun. Free PDF, delivered instantly, plus one short practical email each week.
10 Amazing Activities to Do With an Autistic Child This Summer — free PDF, delivered instantly.
No spam. Unsubscribe any time.