When families begin exploring autism services, one of the most common options they encounter is an ABA autism program. While Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is widely known and funded in many regions, including Ontario, more parents are now looking for approaches that go beyond behavior—and focus on emotional development, communication, and long-term well-being.

At Autism Center for Kids, we offer a psychotherapy-based alternative that includes play therapy, art therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). This article explains how ABA programs typically work, and how our approach differs in structure, provider qualifications, and cost.

What Is an ABA Autism Program?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a structured therapy that focuses on understanding and modifying behavior. It is commonly used for children with autism and often involves intensive, repetitive teaching methods.

ABA programs typically include:

Breaking tasks into small steps
Repetition and reinforcement
Rewards for desired behaviors
Data tracking and measurable outcomes

The goal is to increase “appropriate” behaviors and reduce behaviors considered challenging.

Length and Intensity of ABA Programs

One of the defining features of an ABA autism program is the number of hours involved.

Many ABA programs recommend:

20 to 40 hours per week
Long-term commitment (often years)
Highly structured, repetitive sessions

While this level of intensity may help with specific behavioral goals, it can also be overwhelming for some children. Long sessions may lead to fatigue, reduced engagement, or increased stress—especially if the approach is not aligned with the child’s emotional needs.

Who Provides ABA Therapy?

ABA therapy is often delivered by a team that may include:

Behavior therapists or instructors (sometimes with limited formal clinical training)
Supervised staff working under a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Technicians who implement programs designed by supervisors

In many cases, the child spends the majority of time with front-line therapists rather than highly trained psychotherapists.

Cost of ABA Programs

ABA therapy can be one of the most expensive autism interventions.

Typical costs may include:

$60 to $150+ per hour depending on provider
Weekly costs ranging from $1,200 to $6,000+
Annual costs that can exceed $50,000 to $100,000+

While funding programs such as OAP may help cover some expenses, families often face long waitlists or partial coverage.

A Different Approach at Autism Center for Kids

At Autism Center for Kids, we take a fundamentally different approach. Instead of focusing only on behavior, we focus on the whole child—emotions, communication, relationships, and development.

Our services include:

Play therapy
Art therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

This combination allows us to support not just what a child does—but how they feel, think, and connect with others.

Shorter, More Effective Sessions

Unlike high-hour ABA programs, our therapy model is designed to be effective without overwhelming the child.

Typical structure:

1 to 3 sessions per week
50–60 minutes per session
Focused, high-quality therapeutic engagement

Children remain more engaged, less fatigued, and more emotionally connected—leading to deeper and more meaningful progress.

Who Provides Therapy at Autism Center for Kids?

One of the most important differences is who delivers the therapy.

At Autism Center for Kids:

Therapy is provided directly by a trained psychotherapist
Extensive experience in child development and mental health
Advanced training in multiple therapeutic modalities
One-on-one, personalized care

This means your child is not just following a program—they are building a real therapeutic relationship with a highly qualified professional.

Why Play Therapy Matters

Play therapy allows children to communicate naturally, especially when they struggle with verbal expression.

Through play therapy, children:

Express emotions safely
Develop social skills
Improve communication
Build confidence

This approach is especially effective for younger children and those with autism.

The Role of Art Therapy

Art therapy provides another powerful outlet for expression and emotional processing.

Children can:

Explore feelings through creativity
Reduce anxiety and stress
Build self-awareness
Gain a sense of control and accomplishment

Art therapy complements play therapy by adding a visual and sensory dimension to emotional growth.

CBT and DBT for Skill Development

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provide structured tools for older children and teens.

These approaches help with:

Emotional regulation
Anxiety management
Social understanding
Problem-solving skills
Building independence

Unlike repetitive drills, these therapies teach skills that children can apply in real-life situations.

Behavior vs. Emotional Understanding

ABA focuses primarily on changing behavior. Our approach focuses on understanding the reasons behind behavior.

Instead of asking:

“How do we stop this behavior?”

We ask:

“What is the child feeling?”
“What are they trying to communicate?”
“What skills do they need?”

This leads to more sustainable and meaningful change.

Cost Comparison: ABA vs. Psychotherapy-Based Care

While ABA programs often require high weekly hours and costs, our model is more accessible and focused.

Autism Center for Kids offers:

Lower overall weekly costs due to fewer hours
High-value sessions with a qualified psychotherapist
No need for intensive 20–40 hour programs
Flexible scheduling

Families often find that they receive deeper progress without the financial and time burden of traditional ABA.

A More Personalized Experience

Every child is different—and therapy should reflect that.

At Autism Center for Kids:

Each program is fully individualized
Sessions adapt to the child’s needs and pace
Focus is on connection, not compliance
Emotional well-being is prioritized

Children are not expected to fit into a program—the program is built around the child.

Long-Term Outcomes That Matter

Our goal is not just short-term behavior change. We focus on long-term development, including:

Emotional regulation
Social confidence
Communication skills
Self-awareness
Independence

These are the skills that truly shape a child’s future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ABA the only option for autism therapy?
No, there are many effective alternatives, including psychotherapy-based approaches.

Can children improve without intensive ABA hours?
Yes, many children make significant progress with targeted, high-quality therapy.

Do you offer one-on-one sessions?
Yes, all sessions are individualized and one-on-one.

Is your approach covered by funding?
Many services may be eligible under OAP or private insurance.

Choosing the Right Path for Your Child

An ABA autism program is one option—but it is not the only one. Many families today are choosing approaches that focus on emotional growth, communication, and real-life skills.

At Autism Center for Kids, we provide a supportive, personalized, and psychotherapy-based path that helps children truly thrive—not just change behavior.