Acquisition Overview
Middle-market private equity firm MBF Healthcare Partners (MBF) announced on Wednesday its acquisition of Austin Connect to Wellness, a Texas-based autism provider known for delivering comprehensive care to children and teens with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Founded in 2013, Austin Connect offers applied behavior analysis (ABA), social skills groups, and diagnostic assessments for autism, while also providing support to parents and caregivers through training programs and support groups. This acquisition highlights MBF’s commitment to investing in high-quality ABA therapy providers in Texas.
Facilities and Insurance Partnerships
Austin Connect currently operates six facilities across Austin and Houston, Texas. The organization has established partnerships with major insurance providers including UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, and Magellan, making its services widely accessible. “It was important for us to find a partner who has a successful track record of supporting high-growth health care companies, with specific experience navigating the ABA therapy space, and a commitment to putting patient care first,” said ABA Connect founder Kirsten Brooks and Director of Business Operations Tim Plachta. They emphasized that the partnership with MBF will allow the company to continue investing in staff and operational systems while expanding its reach throughout Texas and other states. By aligning with MBF, Austin Connect strengthens its position among leading ABA therapy providers in Texas.
Rising Need for Autism Services
The demand for autism services has increased significantly over the past decade. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 44 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, up from 1 in 69 children in 2012. Alongside this rise, there has been a national push for ABA service reimbursement. Currently, 49 states mandate coverage for ABA therapy, reflecting both the clinical importance of these services and their growing acceptance as essential pediatric care. For families in Texas, this means easier access to trusted ABA therapy providers in Texas like Austin Connect.
MBF’s Experience in ABA Therapy
MBF Healthcare Partners is no stranger to the autism and ABA therapy sector. In 2018, the firm acquired Acorn Health, an ABA provider offering both in-office and at-home treatment. MBF successfully exited that investment in 2021, selling Acorn Health to the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board (OTPP) when it operated 51 locations. This prior experience gives MBF unique insight into the operational and strategic needs of ABA therapy providers in Texas, positioning the firm to support Austin Connect’s continued growth and expansion.
Private Equity Interest in Behavioral Health
Private equity interest in behavioral health continues to surge. In the first three quarters of 2022, private equity deals accounted for more than 60% of all behavioral health transactions, according to The Braff Group. Firms including KKR, Shore Capital, and Health Enterprise Partners have all placed investments in autism services. MBF’s acquisition of Austin Connect reinforces confidence in ABA therapy providers in Texas and their ability to meet the growing needs of children and families.
Future Growth and Impact
With MBF’s support, Austin Connect can further enhance staff training, expand service offerings, and potentially implement innovative care delivery models, such as telehealth ABA services. These efforts strengthen the network of ABA therapy providers in Texas, providing families with greater access to quality care. As the prevalence of autism continues to rise and insurance coverage for ABA therapy expands, trusted providers like Austin Connect are increasingly critical in supporting children, caregivers, and the broader community.
Ultimately, MBF’s acquisition of Austin Connect highlights the growing role of private equity in shaping behavioral health and demonstrates the firm’s commitment to fostering high-quality ABA therapy providers in Texas that can scale effectively while prioritizing patient care and outcomes.
