State guide
New Mexico
Programs, dollars, and people that serve autism families in New Mexico. Federal protections always apply on top of what you see here.
New Mexico overview
New Mexico's Developmental Disabilities Supports Division (DDSD) administers the Mi Via waiver (self-directed) and the Developmental Disabilities waiver. Contact DDSD through your regional office to begin enrollment — waitlists exist for some services. New Mexico is unique in offering the Mi Via self-directed model, which gives families more control over funding. EPICS (Education for Parents of Indians with Children with Special Needs) is one of NM's PTI centers; Parents Reaching Out (PRO) also serves the state. UNM Center for Development and Disability is the major clinical resource.
Verify program names, URLs, and eligibility on official .gov sites — these change.
⏰ Act now — Medicaid waiver waitlist
New Mexico Developmental Disabilities Waiver (Mi Via / Supports Waiver)
Typical wait: varies — contact DDSD for current waitlist status
Apply through New Mexico DDSD (Developmental Disabilities Supports Division) the day of diagnosis — DDSD manages Mi Via (self-directed) and Supports waivers statewide.
New Mexico's Mi Via waiver allows families to self-direct services and supports. Apply as early as possible.
Apply or learn more →Statewide resources
These four programs exist in every state and are the fastest entry points for most families.
Parent Training & Information (PTI)
EPICS Project(505) 938-3236
Federally funded — free help with IEPs, evaluations, and special ed rights.
Early Intervention (Birth to 3)
New Mexico Family Infant Toddler (FIT) Program(505) 476-0301
Part C IDEA services for children under 3. Apply immediately after diagnosis.
Medicaid / HCBS Waiver
New Mexico DD Waiver (Mi Via / Supports)State waiver program for home and community-based services. Apply the day of diagnosis.
State Autism Organization
Autism Society of New MexicoState-level autism advocacy, family support, and community connection.
Insurance Coverage
Whether private insurance must cover ABA therapy in New Mexico.
New Mexico requires insurance to cover ABA therapy
HB 668 · effective 2009
Covers ABA through age 14 with no dollar cap. Requires autism diagnosis and a licensed BCBA. Self-funded ERISA plans are exempt. Families with older children can explore New Mexico Medicaid for continued ABA coverage.
Self-funded employer plans (ERISA) are typically exempt — ask your HR department which type of plan you have.
Medicaid Waiver
Home and community-based services (HCBS) for autism families in New Mexico.
Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver
New Mexico Developmental Disabilities Supports Division (DDSD)
Typical wait time
3-7 years
Coverage highlights
- ✓Respite
- ✓Supported Living
- ✗Therapy
- ✓Employment Supports
New Mexico's DD Waiver serves individuals with developmental disabilities including autism. Rural geography and limited provider capacity can create service access challenges across the state. Families should register with DDSD early and also explore Mi Via, New Mexico's self-directed waiver, which may offer more flexible options.
How to apply
Medicaid Managed Care
How Medicaid pays for ABA therapy in New Mexico.
Centennial Care (New Mexico Medicaid)
Covers ABA through under 21How to find your plan
Visit hsd.state.nm.us/mad or call 1-800-283-4465. Your Centennial Care plan is on your New Mexico Medicaid card.
Major plans in this state
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico (Presbyterian Centennial Care)
- Molina Healthcare of New Mexico
- UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of New Mexico
New Mexico's Centennial Care program uses managed care organizations statewide. ABA therapy is covered for children under 21 through EPSDT. Prior authorization is required. Rural families should contact their plan early as ABA provider availability can be limited outside of Albuquerque and Santa Fe.
⚠️ Prior authorization is required before starting ABA services.