In Ontario, autism therapy is generally not directly covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan). OHIP primarily covers medically necessary services, such as doctor visits, hospital care, and certain diagnostic tests, but it doesn’t typically cover specialized therapy for autism, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA), speech therapy, or occupational therapy unless they are specifically part of a medical treatment prescribed by a doctor.
However, there are a few important ways to access autism-related therapies and support in Ontario:
1. Ontario Autism Program (OAP)
Although OHIP doesn’t cover autism therapy, the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) offers funding for children diagnosed with autism to help pay for therapy services. This funding can be used for therapies such as:
Behavioral therapy (e.g., ABA)
Speech therapy
Occupational therapy
Other services that support skill development and behavioral needs
The amount of funding varies depending on the child’s age and specific needs, and families can access this funding to pay for services from private providers.
2. Extended Health Benefits or Private Insurance
Some families with private health insurance (through employers or other sources) may have coverage for autism therapy. Many extended health plans cover services like:
Speech therapy
Occupational therapy
Behavioral therapy
Psychological services
Check with your insurance provider to see what is covered under your plan. Coverage levels and eligibility will vary depending on the policy.
3. Direct Services through Schools
While OHIP doesn’t cover therapy directly, Ontario’s education system provides support services for students with autism through special education programs. These services might include:
Speech-language therapy
Behavioral supports
Social skills training
These services are available as part of the child’s education plan and are usually provided through the school board, though the level of support can vary.
4. Tax Credits
In addition to therapy services, there are also programs like the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and Medical Expense Tax Credit that can help offset the costs of autism-related therapy, provided certain eligibility criteria are met. Families may also qualify for tax deductions related to medical expenses for therapy services that aren’t covered by insurance or other programs.

Summary:
While autism therapy is not covered by OHIP, there are other options for families in Ontario to access therapy funding or support, including the Ontario Autism Program (OAP), private insurance, school-based services, and tax credits. It’s always a good idea to speak with an autism support organization or a caseworker who can guide you through available services and funding options.

Yes, autism can qualify as a disability in Ontario. However, eligibility for disability-related support or benefits depends on the specific programs you are applying for and the criteria set by each program.
Here are a few key programs where autism may qualify as a disability:
1. Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) provides financial assistance and employment support to individuals with disabilities. Autism can be considered a qualifying condition for ODSP if the person’s ability to work, function in society, or care for themselves is significantly impacted by the disability.
Eligibility Criteria for ODSP: To qualify, an individual must have a disability that is expected to last a year or more and severely limits their ability to work, take part in daily activities, or perform basic self-care tasks.
For children, the parents can apply for financial support, which can help cover costs associated with raising a child with autism, including therapies, medical expenses, and other disability-related needs.
2. Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a federal tax benefit available to individuals who have a significant disability that affects their daily life. Autism may qualify under this program if the person with autism has a severe impairment in at least one area, such as communication, social skills, or daily living activities.
Eligibility for the DTC: To qualify, the person with autism (or their caregiver) must provide medical documentation from a healthcare provider stating that autism significantly impairs daily living.
The DTC can reduce the amount of income tax that a caregiver or family member has to pay, which helps offset some of the costs of care.
3. Special Services at Home (SSAH) Program
The Special Services at Home program is available for children with disabilities, including autism, in Ontario. This program provides financial assistance to families to support the cost of services like respite care, skill development, and personal care.
Eligibility: Children with autism may qualify for SSAH if their disability affects their ability to participate in regular activities or require additional support at home.
4. Ontario Autism Program (OAP)
The Ontario Autism Program (OAP), which we discussed earlier, is another program that offers funding and services to children with autism. While not technically a disability benefit, OAP provides financial support to families with children diagnosed with autism to cover therapy and developmental services.

How to Apply for Disability Benefits in Ontario
To apply for disability-related support programs like ODSP or the DTC, you’ll need to submit documentation regarding the autism diagnosis, usually from a medical professional, and provide detailed information about how the condition impacts daily functioning.
It’s often helpful to work with a caseworker, legal advisor, or support organization (like a local autism center) to navigate the application process, as each program has specific requirements and steps.

The Ontario Autism Program (OAP) has undergone significant changes in recent years to better meet the needs of children and families affected by autism. As of 2025, the new OAP focuses on offering more flexible and accessible services, ensuring children receive the right care and support at the right time.
Key elements of the new OAP include:
Individualized Funding: Families can access funding to choose services that best fit their child’s needs, such as therapy, skill-building, and behavior management.
Enhanced Early Intervention: The program emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, ensuring children receive the support they need from an early age.
Comprehensive Support: OAP now offers a wider range of services, including clinical assessments, specialized training for caregivers, and programs designed to promote social, communication, and developmental skills.
Support for Siblings: The OAP also recognizes the impact of autism on siblings and provides resources for families to help them better understand and support their autistic child.
Why Choose Amir Haimove’s Autism Center for Kids?
Amir Haimove’s Autism Center for Kids stands out as one of the best options for families in Ontario, particularly when navigating the new OAP system. Here’s why:
Expert Knowledge of OAP: The center has in-depth knowledge of the Ontario Autism Program, including the latest updates and funding opportunities. They guide families through the process of accessing and maximizing OAP services, ensuring children get the support they need.
Tailored Programs: Amir Haimove’s center is committed to offering individualized therapy and care that aligns with the specific needs of each child. Whether it’s early intervention or ongoing therapy, their programs are designed to promote developmental growth based on each child’s strengths and challenges.
Comprehensive Family Support: The center’s holistic approach includes not just therapy for children, but also support and training for parents and caregivers. The caregiver-mediated programs help families learn effective strategies to continue the support at home.
Experienced and Compassionate Team: The team at Amir Haimove’s center consists of experienced therapists, psychologists, and specialists who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children with autism. The center fosters a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe and supported.
Focus on Long-Term Success: The center’s services are designed to ensure sustainable progress. From developing social and communication skills to behavioral management, the center works to create lasting change that helps children thrive both at home and in social settings.
Inclusive for Siblings: Recognizing the importance of the entire family unit, Amir Haimove’s Autism Center offers specialized programs for siblings of children with autism. This ensures the whole family can grow and thrive together.

The Ontario Autism Program (OAP) has undergone significant changes in recent years to better meet the needs of children and families affected by autism. As of 2025, the new OAP focuses on offering more flexible and accessible services, ensuring children receive the right care and support at the right time.
Key elements of the new OAP include:
Individualized Funding: Families can access funding to choose services that best fit their child’s needs, such as therapy, skill-building, and behavior management.
Enhanced Early Intervention: The program emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, ensuring children receive the support they need from an early age.
Comprehensive Support: OAP now offers a wider range of services, including clinical assessments, specialized training for caregivers, and programs designed to promote social, communication, and developmental skills.
Support for Siblings: The OAP also recognizes the impact of autism on siblings and provides resources for families to help them better understand and support their autistic child.
Why Choose Amir Haimove’s Autism Center for Kids?
Amir Haimove’s Autism Center for Kids stands out as one of the best options for families in Ontario, particularly when navigating the new OAP system. Here’s why:
Expert Knowledge of OAP: The center has in-depth knowledge of the Ontario Autism Program, including the latest updates and funding opportunities. They guide families through the process of accessing and maximizing OAP services, ensuring children get the support they need.
Tailored Programs: Amir Haimove’s center is committed to offering individualized therapy and care that aligns with the specific needs of each child. Whether it’s early intervention or ongoing therapy, their programs are designed to promote developmental growth based on each child’s strengths and challenges.
Comprehensive Family Support: The center’s holistic approach includes not just therapy for children, but also support and training for parents and caregivers. The caregiver-mediated programs help families learn effective strategies to continue the support at home.
Experienced and Compassionate Team: The team at Amir Haimove’s center consists of experienced therapists, psychologists, and specialists who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children with autism. The center fosters a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe and supported.
Focus on Long-Term Success: The center’s services are designed to ensure sustainable progress. From developing social and communication skills to behavioral management, the center works to create lasting change that helps children thrive both at home and in social settings.
Inclusive for Siblings: Recognizing the importance of the entire family unit, Amir Haimove’s Autism Center offers specialized programs for siblings of children with autism. This ensures the whole family can grow and thrive together.

Ready to Take the Next Step?
Amir Haimove’s Autism Center for Kids is here to support you and your child every step of the way. With a deep understanding of the new OAP and a focus on individualized, compassionate care, we are the best choice for your family’s autism journey.