If your child has recently been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or another developmental disability, you may have heard the term EIDBI — and wondered what it actually means for your family. This guide breaks it down in plain language.
What Does EIDBI Stand For?
EIDBI stands for Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention. It is a benefit under Minnesota’s Medical Assistance (Medicaid) program specifically designed for children and young adults up to age 21 who have autism spectrum disorder or related conditions.
What Services Does EIDBI Include?
EIDBI is not a single therapy — it’s a benefit category that can cover a range of services depending on your child’s individual needs, including:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) — structured behavioral therapy to build communication, social, and daily living skills
- Developmental therapy — play-based approaches that target developmental milestones
- Family training — teaching parents and caregivers how to support their child’s progress at home
- Skills training — occupational, speech, and behavioral skill-building
- Coordination — helping families navigate school services, county supports, and other resources
Who Qualifies for EIDBI?
To qualify for EIDBI in Minnesota, your child must:
- Be under age 21
- Have a formal diagnosis of ASD or a related condition (such as Rett syndrome or childhood disintegrative disorder)
- Be enrolled in Minnesota Medical Assistance (Medicaid)
- Have a treatment plan developed by a Qualified Supervising Professional (QSP)
The diagnosis must come from a licensed physician, psychologist, or other qualified provider. If your child hasn’t been evaluated yet, ask their pediatrician for a referral to a developmental evaluation.
Where Are EIDBI Services Provided?
One of the most important features of EIDBI is that services are delivered where your child lives and learns — not just in a clinic. EIDBI can be provided:
- In your home
- At your child’s school or daycare
- In the community (parks, stores, community centers)
- At a clinic like Aspire Counseling
This “natural environment” approach means your child learns skills in the actual settings where they need to use them — which leads to better generalization and faster progress.
Is EIDBI Covered by Medicaid?
Yes. EIDBI is a covered Medicaid benefit in Minnesota, which means there is no cost to families who have Medical Assistance. This includes most Minnesota Medicaid plans such as MHCP, UCare, Hennepin Health, Blue Plus, and others.
If you’re unsure whether your child is enrolled in Medicaid or which plan they have, contact your county social services office or call Minnesota’s DHS Family Helpline.
How Do I Get Started with EIDBI?
The process is simpler than it might seem:
- Get a formal ASD diagnosis from a licensed provider
- Confirm your child’s Medicaid enrollment
- Contact an EIDBI provider like Aspire Counseling at (952) 600-4940
- We handle the authorization process with your insurance
- Services begin — usually within 2–4 weeks of first contact
Why Choose Aspire for EIDBI?
Aspire Counseling is a Minneapolis-area EIDBI provider serving children and families across Bloomington, Minneapolis, Eden Prairie, Richfield, and surrounding communities. We specialize in culturally responsive care and have staff who speak Somali, Spanish, Amharic, and English.
Have questions? Call us at (952) 600-4940 or start the process online. We respond within 1 business day.