Mental Health Services for Children with Autism in Oakville & Vaughan
At the Autism Center for Kids, we specialize in providing high-quality, compassionate, and individualized mental health services for children with autism in both Oakville and Vaughan. Our mission is to support the emotional, psychological, and behavioral well-being of children on the autism spectrum by offering evidence-based therapies tailored to each child’s unique strengths and needs.
Whether your child is newly diagnosed or already receiving services, our team of specialists is here to support you every step of the way.
Why Mental Health Support Matters for Children with Autism
Children and youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience co-occurring mental health challenges. These may include:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Emotional dysregulation
- Sensory processing challenges
- Social withdrawal or isolation
Early, specialized mental health services can make a significant difference in helping children develop resilience, self-regulation skills, social competence, and emotional understanding. Our center offers a warm, structured, and inclusive environment where children can grow, thrive, and feel truly understood.
Our Mental Health Services for Children with Autism
We offer a wide range of mental health services for children with autism in Oakville and Vaughan, including:
1. Individual Therapy
Our experienced child therapists provide one-on-one sessions using a variety of approaches based on each child’s needs. These may include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Play Therapy
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for emotional regulation
- Narrative Therapy
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
Therapy focuses on managing anxiety, navigating transitions, improving self-esteem, and understanding emotions.
2. Family Therapy
Autism affects the entire family. Our family therapy services help improve communication, reduce stress, and build stronger relationships. We help parents and siblings develop effective coping strategies and support systems.
3. Parent Coaching & Support
We provide coaching sessions for parents that are practical, educational, and empathetic. Learn tools to manage meltdowns, support routines, reinforce positive behaviors, and reduce conflict in the home.
4. Social Skills Groups
Our popular LEGO®-Based Social Skills Groups and other structured programs help children and teens build friendship skills, emotional awareness, and cooperative play in a supportive, neurodiversity-affirming environment.
Groups are age-appropriate and often grouped by communication style and developmental level, not just age.
5. School Readiness & Transition Support
Starting school or changing classrooms can be difficult for children on the spectrum. We offer preparation programs that build independence, emotional readiness, and classroom coping skills for a smooth transition.
6. Behaviour Consultation & Emotional Regulation Coaching
We work with families to understand the root causes of challenging behaviors. Our consultants teach children and caregivers emotional regulation techniques such as:
- Zones of Regulation
- Mindfulness
- Sensory strategies
- Visual supports
Who We Serve
We welcome children and youth aged 2 to 18, including those with:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), including Level 1, 2, and 3
- Co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, OCD, anxiety, or learning differences
- Speech and language delays
- Emotional regulation challenges
- Non-verbal or alternative communication needs
We support children with or without formal diagnoses. If you’re concerned about your child’s emotional health or behavior, we encourage you to reach out for a consultation.
Our Locations
Oakville Mental Health Services for Children with Autism
Vaughan Mental Health Services for Children with Autism
Both centers offer accessible, sensory-considerate spaces and private therapy rooms to ensure your child feels safe and welcome.
Why Choose Autism Center for Kids?
✅ Neurodiversity-affirming approach
✅ Evidence-based and trauma-informed care
✅ Highly trained child psychologists and therapists
✅ Small caseloads for individualized attention
✅ Family-centered philosophy
✅ Flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend options
✅ Collaboration with schools, doctors, and other care providers
Your child’s voice matters here. Our goal is not to “fix” autism but to build emotional resilience, self-worth, and skills for life in a way that respects their unique wiring.
Success Stories from Families Like Yours
“My son used to melt down daily before school. With therapy, he’s learned calming strategies, and we’ve learned how to support him. The change has been incredible.”
— Melissa, parent of an 8-year-old with ASD
“We finally found a therapist who really gets my daughter. She’s learned to open up, and her confidence has soared.”
— James, father of a 13-year-old
“The social group has been a lifesaver. My child made a real friend for the first time.”
— Priya, mother of a 9-year-old
Getting Started: What to Expect
- Free Initial Consultation
We begin with a free 20-minute phone call to understand your concerns and determine the best fit. - Comprehensive Intake Assessment
We gather a full picture of your child’s strengths, needs, history, and goals through interviews and questionnaires. - Customized Treatment Plan
Together, we develop a tailored support plan that aligns with your child’s developmental stage and family values. - Ongoing Therapy and Evaluation
Progress is tracked regularly, and services are adjusted as needed to meet evolving goals.
Fees & Funding Options
We believe mental health services should be accessible. We offer:
- Private pay with receipts for insurance reimbursement
- Autism funding programs (such as OAP)
- Sliding scale options (limited availability)
- Direct billing to some extended health plans
Please contact us to learn more about coverage and eligibility.
Let’s Support Your Child’s Mental Health Together
If your child is struggling emotionally, socially, or behaviorally, you are not alone. The Autism Center for Kids is here to provide expert, compassionate mental health services for children with autism in Oakville and Vaughan.
Let’s work together to help your child feel more understood, confident, and connected.
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