In-network · Kaiser Permanente

ABA therapy through Kaiser, without the runaround.

Q: How long does it take to start?

It varies. The diagnosis and authorization steps usually take a few weeks end to end. Once authorization is in place, our small caseloads mean your child isn't sitting on a long waitlist.

Animate Behavior is in-network with Kaiser Permanente. If you have a Kaiser referral for ABA, or you're just starting to ask questions, we'll help you understand the steps from authorization to the first session.

Request Services →Call (510) 500-5124

A father and his daughter read together on the living room sofa.

How Kaiser ABA coverage works

Kaiser covers ABA therapy for children with autism, but it doesn't employ ABA providers directly. As an HMO, Kaiser works through a network coordinator to deliver Behavioral Health Treatment, including ABA, and in California that partner is Catalight Care Services. Animate Behavior is a contracted provider in the Catalight network, so Kaiser families can request us by name. Getting started has three parts: a diagnosis, a referral, and an authorization. It sounds like a lot, but it's manageable, and you won't do it alone.

Step by step, from referral to first session

Talk to your Kaiser pediatrician

Share your concerns and ask about an autism evaluation or ABA referral. If the person seeking services already has an autism diagnosis, ask about a referral to ABA services.

Kaiser connects you with Catalight, its provider network

After a Kaiser referral, Catalight Care Services typically handles intake and connects you with a provider in its network. You can ask for Animate Behavior in Albany by name.

Authorization

Kaiser reviews the referral and authorizes an ABA assessment, then ongoing treatment hours. We handle the paperwork on our side and keep you posted.

BCBA assessment and start of care

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst develops an individualized plan with the person receiving care and their support team. Sessions begin after authorization and scheduling in an appropriate setting.

What Animate handles for you

We coordinate authorizations, submit required assessments and progress reports, and track reauthorization deadlines. You can focus on your goals while we help with the paperwork. Curious what the assessment involves? See how our BCBA assessment works.

Seeing your Kaiser pediatrician soon? Download our one-page guide: what to bring, what to say, and what to ask (PDF, English and Spanish).

Kaiser questions, answered

Does Kaiser cover ABA therapy? +

Yes. Kaiser covers ABA for children with an autism diagnosis when it's medically necessary. Coverage details vary by plan, and authorization is required before services begin. We'll help you confirm your exact benefits during intake.

Do I need a diagnosis before contacting you? +

No. You can reach out at any point. Many funders, including Kaiser, do require an autism diagnosis to authorize ABA, but we can help you understand the path even if you're just getting started.

How do I request Animate as my Kaiser ABA provider? +

Ask your pediatrician or the autism care team to send the ABA referral to Animate Behavior in Albany. You can also submit our Request for Services form and we’ll tell you exactly what to say.

How long does it take to start? +

Timing varies with the referral, assessment, authorization, and scheduling. Our clinical team can explain current availability and the next steps for your situation.

Will I have out-of-pocket costs? +

It depends on your specific Kaiser plan. Once we verify your coverage, we'll walk you through exactly what to expect before services begin, no surprises.

Have a Kaiser referral, or questions about getting one?

Reach out today. Our client services team replies within one business day, and a clinician reviews every request.

Request Services →Call (510) 500-5124

Insurance processes change. We'll confirm the current requirements for your exact plan during intake. More questions? Visit our Help Center or our Albany center page.