Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) delivered to children aged 18–30 months produced significant gains in IQ, adaptive behaviour, and autism severity — some children no longer met diagnostic criteria at follow-up
OAP Guide
What Therapies Does OAP Fund?
Last updated: June 2026
In short
Ontario Autism Program Core Clinical Services fund five major therapy types: ABA, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, mental health services, and communication aids. OAP does not cover assessments, respite care, or services at private schools.
Verified: 2026-06-13
Scope: Ontario, Canada
The children behind the programme
Every number on this page is a child waiting through the critical early-intervention window.
Registered
89,799Children registered
Total in the Ontario Autism Program queue
MCCSS FOI · Mar 2026
Funded
20,633Have active funding
Only 23% of registered children
MCCSS FOI · Mar 2026
Waiting
69,166Still waiting
Registered. Diagnosed. Un-funded.
MCCSS FOI · Mar 2026
Verified , MCCSS FOI · Mar 2026
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Children registered | 89,799 |
| Have active funding | 20,633 |
| Still waiting | 69,166 |
Ontario Autism Program (OAP) Core Clinical Services cover five therapy types: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, mental health services, and communication aids. OAP does not fund initial assessments, respite care, or private school services. Families direct annual funding of $6,600–$65,000 toward approved providers, based on age and support level.
OAP Covers These 5 Therapies
ABA Therapy
Applied Behavior Analysis therapy is a primary OAP-funded intervention. Focuses on skill development and behavior reduction. Typically 10-20 hours per week.
Speech-Language Pathology
Speech-language pathology (SLP) services address communication and language development. Often combined with ABA. Average 1-4 hours per week.
Occupational Therapy
OT addresses fine motor skills, sensory integration, self-care, and daily living. Integrated with other therapies. 1-3 hours per week typical.
Mental Health Services
Counseling and psychological services for children with autism and comorbid conditions (anxiety, depression). Varies by provider network.
Technology & Communication Aids
AAC devices, communication software, and adaptive technology to support communication. Subject to specific criteria and funding limits.
OAP Does NOT Cover
Autism Assessments
Initial diagnostic assessments and evaluations are NOT funded by OAP. Must be arranged privately or through public health.
Respite Care
Respite care (emergency childcare/relief) is NOT included in OAP Core Clinical Services. Must access separately.
Private School Services
Therapies provided at private schools typically are not OAP-eligible unless special arrangements are made.
Travel & Transportation
Travel costs to attend therapy appointments are not covered by OAP funding.
Recreational/Summer Programs
Recreational programs, summer camps, and community activities are not OAP-funded Core Clinical Services.
How to Get OAP-Funded Therapy
- 1.Register with OAP: Apply through your local Developmental Services Outreach program (DSO).
- 2.Wait for assessment: Average wait time is 60+ months from registration.
- 3.Receive Childhood Budget: Once approved, receive funding to direct toward approved therapies.
- 4.Access services: Work with approved service providers to begin therapy.
While You Wait for OAP Funding
Ontario offers free Foundational Family Services immediately after registration, including parent coaching and access to public health services. Many families also pursue private therapy options while on the OAP waitlist.
The political record
Every commitment is measured against the children still waiting.
Registered
89,799Children registered
Total in the Ontario Autism Program queue
MCCSS FOI · Mar 2026
Funded
20,633Have active funding
Only 23% of registered children
MCCSS FOI · Mar 2026
Waiting
69,166Still waiting
Registered. Diagnosed. Un-funded.
MCCSS FOI · Mar 2026
Verified , MCCSS FOI · Mar 2026
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Children registered | 89,799 |
| Have active funding | 20,633 |
| Still waiting | 69,166 |
Primary Sources
- MCCSS bi-weekly OAP Core Clinical Services progress reports (FOI release CSS2026-0749). Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (Ontario) (March 2026)
- Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services: Spending Plan Review (2024). Financial Accountability Office of Ontario (2024)
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Email Your MPPAbout This Article
Written by Spencer Carroll
Founder & Autism Advocate
Evidence on this page
The source chain stays visible.
Key claims are paired with their source, evidence tier, and verification date so readers can inspect the public record directly.
Facts5
Sources5
Cochrane systematic review finds evidence that early intensive behavioural intervention (EIBI) may produce positive effects on adaptive behaviour and communication for young children with ASD (low certainty of evidence)
WHO recommends accessible, community-based early interventions for children with autism — timely evidence-based psychosocial interventions improve communication and social engagement
89,799
children are registered in the Ontario Autism Program
23%
Only 20,633 children have active funding agreements (23%) — less than one in four
Last system verification: 2026-06-13. Next scheduled update: 2026-09-10.