End the Wait Ontario
Find what you need quickly. Whether you are waiting for services, looking for resources, or ready to advocate for change.
Estimate how long you might wait for OAP services based on current data and your region.
Learn how the Ontario Autism Program works, funding levels, and what to expect when invited.
Email your MPP, share your story, and join the fight for timely autism services in Ontario.
Curated research, WHO guidelines, and primary sources for advocacy and understanding.
Understanding human rights, education rights, and options while waiting for services.
End the Wait Ontario
Find what you need quickly. Whether you are waiting for services, looking for resources, or ready to advocate for change.
Estimate how long you might wait for OAP services based on current data and your region.
Learn how the Ontario Autism Program works, funding levels, and what to expect when invited.
Email your MPP, share your story, and join the fight for timely autism services in Ontario.
Curated research, WHO guidelines, and primary sources for advocacy and understanding.
Understanding human rights, education rights, and options while waiting for services.
The transition to adulthood brings new challenges and opportunities. Whether you're seeking adult diagnosis, navigating ODSP applications, exploring Passport funding, finding employment, or building social connections—this comprehensive hub guides you through Ontario's adult services landscape.
Many autistic adults discover their autism later in life. Here's how to get a formal diagnosis in Ontario.
OHIP-covered adult autism assessments are extremely limited in Ontario. Most adults seeking diagnosis must go private.
$2,500-$5,000
Private assessment cost
4-12 weeks
Private wait time
2-4 years
Public (CAMH) wait time
Adult autism assessment program. Extremely limited availability.
Search College of Psychologists of Ontario register for qualified assessors.
Training clinics offer assessments at reduced rates by supervised students.
Don't wait until 18—preparation is essential for a smooth transition to adult services.
Begin transition planning with school and family
Apply to Developmental Services Ontario (DSO)
Apply for ODSP (can apply up to 6 months before turning 18)
OAP funding ends, adult services begin
Access Passport, employment supports, housing programs
Six critical areas every family navigating adult autism services needs to understand.
These three programs form the foundation of adult autism support in Ontario.
Ontario Disability Support Program provides income support and employment benefits for eligible autistic adults.
First $1,000/month of employment income is 100% exempt.
Every Ontario college and university has an Accessibility Office providing accommodations for autistic students.
Employment support programs help autistic adults find meaningful work with appropriate accommodations.
Provincial network of agencies providing job coaching, skill development, and employer connections.
Visit oden.ca →IT and tech assessment, training, and employment for neurodivergent adults.
Visit specialisterne.ca →Use this checklist to ensure nothing is missed during the critical transition period.
Many adult services have waitlists of 10+ years. Applying at age 16 gives your child the best chance of accessing services when they need them in their 20s. Don't wait until 18 to start the process.
No. OAP services and funding end strictly at age 18. Youth must transition to adult services (DSO, ODSP) which have separate extensive waitlists. Families are advised to begin the transition process at age 16 to mitigate service gaps.
Source: Ontario Autism Program GuidelinesAdult autism assessments largely happen in the private sector, costing $3,000-$5,000 depending on complexity. OHIP coverage for adult assessments is extremely limited and rare (e.g., via CAMH). Many adults pay out-of-pocket as OAP does not serve adults.
Source: Psychologist Fee Schedules OntarioPassport Funding is for adults (18+) with developmental disabilities to participate in community activities and respite. Funding starts at $5,500/year min, up to $44,000+ based on need. It helps cover costs after aging out of the OAP system.
Source: Developmental Services OntarioAs of 2024/25, a single person on ODSP receives approx $1,368/month (Basic Needs + Shelter). Increases are tied to inflation. This amount is widely criticized as being below the poverty line, especially given the high cost of disability-related supports.
Source: Ontario Disability Support ProgramCommitment to Accuracy: Our data is independently verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: October 30, 2025.
The transition to adulthood brings new challenges and opportunities. Whether you're seeking adult diagnosis, navigating ODSP applications, exploring Passport funding, finding employment, or building social connections—this comprehensive hub guides you through Ontario's adult services landscape.
Many autistic adults discover their autism later in life. Here's how to get a formal diagnosis in Ontario.
OHIP-covered adult autism assessments are extremely limited in Ontario. Most adults seeking diagnosis must go private.
$2,500-$5,000
Private assessment cost
4-12 weeks
Private wait time
2-4 years
Public (CAMH) wait time
Adult autism assessment program. Extremely limited availability.
Search College of Psychologists of Ontario register for qualified assessors.
Training clinics offer assessments at reduced rates by supervised students.
Don't wait until 18—preparation is essential for a smooth transition to adult services.
Begin transition planning with school and family
Apply to Developmental Services Ontario (DSO)
Apply for ODSP (can apply up to 6 months before turning 18)
OAP funding ends, adult services begin
Access Passport, employment supports, housing programs
Six critical areas every family navigating adult autism services needs to understand.
These three programs form the foundation of adult autism support in Ontario.
Ontario Disability Support Program provides income support and employment benefits for eligible autistic adults.
First $1,000/month of employment income is 100% exempt.
Every Ontario college and university has an Accessibility Office providing accommodations for autistic students.
Building social connections is essential for autistic adults. Here are regional resources for finding community and support.
Autism Ontario Chapters
Over 25 chapters across Ontario offering adult social groups, support meetings, and recreational activities. Visit autismontario.com to find your local chapter.
Virtual Programs
Many organizations now offer online social groups, game nights, and support meetings accessible from anywhere in Ontario. Ideal for those in rural or underserved areas.
Employment support programs help autistic adults find meaningful work with appropriate accommodations.
Provincial network of agencies providing job coaching, skill development, and employer connections.
Visit oden.ca →IT and tech assessment, training, and employment for neurodivergent adults.
Visit specialisterne.ca →Use this checklist to ensure nothing is missed during the critical transition period.
Many adult services have waitlists of 10+ years. Applying at age 16 gives your child the best chance of accessing services when they need them in their 20s. Don't wait until 18 to start the process.
No. OAP services and funding end strictly at age 18. Youth must transition to adult services (DSO, ODSP) which have separate extensive waitlists. Families are advised to begin the transition process at age 16 to mitigate service gaps.
Source: Ontario Autism Program GuidelinesAdult autism assessments largely happen in the private sector, costing $3,000-$5,000 depending on complexity. OHIP coverage for adult assessments is extremely limited and rare (e.g., via CAMH). Many adults pay out-of-pocket as OAP does not serve adults.
Source: Psychologist Fee Schedules OntarioPassport Funding is for adults (18+) with developmental disabilities to participate in community activities and respite. Funding starts at $5,500/year min, up to $44,000+ based on need. It helps cover costs after aging out of the OAP system.
Source: Developmental Services OntarioAs of 2024/25, a single person on ODSP receives approx $1,368/month (Basic Needs + Shelter). Increases are tied to inflation. This amount is widely criticized as being below the poverty line, especially given the high cost of disability-related supports.
Source: Ontario Disability Support ProgramCommitment to Accuracy: Our data is independently verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: October 30, 2025.
Social Connections & Community
Building social connections is essential for autistic adults. Here are regional resources for finding community and support.
Toronto & GTA
Ottawa & Eastern Ontario
Hamilton & Niagara
London & Southwestern Ontario
Northern Ontario
Additional Social Connection Resources
Autism Ontario Chapters
Over 25 chapters across Ontario offering adult social groups, support meetings, and recreational activities. Visit autismontario.com to find your local chapter.
Virtual Programs
Many organizations now offer online social groups, game nights, and support meetings accessible from anywhere in Ontario. Ideal for those in rural or underserved areas.