Ontario Autism Program (OAP): The Ontario Autism Program (OAP) is a government-funded program that provides funding for evidence-based services and supports for children and youth with autism. The OAP offers three levels of service: Core Services, which include assessment and diagnosis, family services, and transition planning; Foundational Services, which include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and occupational therapy; and Intensive Services, which include specialized services for children with complex needs. Parents can apply for funding for the OAP by submitting an online application. For more information about the OAP, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-autism-program.
Special Services at Home (SSAH): Special Services at Home (SSAH) is a government-funded program that provides financial assistance to families with children with developmental or physical disabilities, including autism. The funding can be used for a variety of services, including respite care, equipment, and support workers. To be eligible for SSAH, families must have a child with a severe disability who lives at home, and the child must require more care than is available through other community programs. To apply for SSAH, parents must contact their local Developmental Services Ontario office. For more information about SSAH, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/special-services-home.
Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD): Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD) is a government-funded program that provides financial assistance to families with children with severe disabilities, including autism. The funding can be used for a variety of services, including medical and therapeutic services, equipment, and respite care. To be eligible for ACSD, families must have a child with a severe disability who requires substantial care, and the family’s income must be below a certain level. To apply for ACSD, parents must contact their local Children’s Treatment Centre. For more information about ACSD, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/assistance-children-severe-disabilities.
Passport Program: The Passport Program is a government-funded program that provides funding to adults with disabilities, including autism, to participate in community activities and receive support services. The funding can be used for a variety of services, including respite care, transportation, and skill-building programs. To be eligible for the Passport Program, individuals must be 18 years or older and have a developmental disability that limits their ability to function independently. To apply for the Passport Program, individuals must contact their local Developmental Services Ontario office. For more information about the Passport Program, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/passport-program.
Children’s Treatment and Rehabilitation Services: Children’s Treatment and Rehabilitation Services provide assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation services for children with a range of developmental disabilities, including autism. The services are funded by the Ontario government and are provided by community-based agencies. The services offered through Children’s Treatment and Rehabilitation Services vary depending on the needs of the child, but may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. To access Children’s Treatment and Rehabilitation Services, parents must contact their local Children’s Treatment Centre. For more information about Children’s Treatment and Rehabilitation Services, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/childrens-treatment-and-rehabilitation-services.
Overall, there are several different types of funding available for parents with kids with autism in Ontario, Canada. Each funding option has specific eligibility requirements and application processes, so parents should work with their healthcare providers and government agencies to determine which funding options are available to them and how to access them.
The fees for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy for children with autism in Ontario can vary based on several factors, such as the type of therapy, the qualifications and experience of the therapist, and the location of the therapy center.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy:
The cost of ABA therapy in Ontario can range from $50 to $200 per hour, depending on the qualifications and experience of the therapist. Families may be eligible for funding through the Ontario Autism Program or private insurance plans, which can help cover the costs of ABA therapy. The level of funding and the amount of coverage may vary depending on the age and level of need of the child.
Speech Therapy:
The fees for speech therapy in Ontario can vary depending on the qualifications and experience of the therapist, as well as the location of the therapy center. The average cost for a session can range from $90 to $150 per hour. Funding may be available through private insurance plans or through government programs such as the Assistive Devices Program.
Occupational Therapy:
The fees for occupational therapy in Ontario can also vary depending on the qualifications and experience of the therapist and the location of the therapy center. The average cost for a session can range from $100 to $200 per hour. Funding may be available through private insurance plans or through government programs such as the Assistive Devices Program.
It’s important to note that the fees for therapy may be covered in part or in full by government-funded programs such as the Ontario Autism Program, or by private insurance plans. Families are encouraged to research the funding options available to them and to speak with their child’s healthcare team or a financial advisor for guidance on how to access funding for therapy.
Here are some helpful resources for more information on funding for therapy in Ontario:
Ontario Autism Program: https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-autism-program
Assistive Devices Program: https://www.ontario.ca/page/assistive-devices-program
Autism Ontario: https://www.autismontario.com/funding
Speech-Language & Audiology Canada: https://www.sac-oac.ca/