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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.
The children behind the programme
Every number on this page is a child waiting through the critical early-intervention window.
Registered
88,175Children registered
Total in the Ontario Autism Program queue
CBC FOI Jan 2026
Funded
20,666Have active funding
Just 23.4% of registered children
CBC FOI Jan 2026
Waiting
67,509Still waiting
Registered. Diagnosed. Un-funded.
CBC FOI Jan 2026
Verified , CBC FOI Jan 2026
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Children registered | 88,175 |
| Have active funding | 20,666 |
| Still waiting | 67,509 |
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 funding of $5,500–$55,000 annually toward approved providers.
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 (SLP) services address communication and language development. Often combined with ABA. Average 1-4 hours per week.
OT addresses fine motor skills, sensory integration, self-care, and daily living. Integrated with other therapies. 1-3 hours per week typical.
Counseling and psychological services for children with autism and comorbid conditions (anxiety, depression). Varies by provider network.
AAC devices, communication software, and adaptive technology to support communication. Subject to specific criteria and funding limits.
Initial diagnostic assessments and evaluations are NOT funded by OAP. Must be arranged privately or through public health.
Respite care (emergency childcare/relief) is NOT included in OAP Core Clinical Services. Must access separately.
Therapies provided at private schools typically are not OAP-eligible unless special arrangements are made.
Travel costs to attend therapy appointments are not covered by OAP funding.
Recreational programs, summer camps, and community activities are not OAP-funded Core Clinical Services.
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
88,175Children registered
Total in the Ontario Autism Program queue
CBC FOI Jan 2026
Funded
20,666Have active funding
Just 23.4% of registered children
CBC FOI Jan 2026
Waiting
67,509Still waiting
Registered. Diagnosed. Un-funded.
CBC FOI Jan 2026
Verified , CBC FOI Jan 2026
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Children registered | 88,175 |
| Have active funding | 20,666 |
| Still waiting | 67,509 |
Find your next step
01 · For new families
Step-by-step guide to OAP registration, interim therapy options, and what to expect during the wait.
02 · Already waiting
Estimate your wait time, find funded interim services near you, and track your OAP status.
03 · Take action
Email your MPP with one click, share verified data, and advocate for system-wide reform.
Verified Facts
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
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
88,175, children are registered in the Ontario Autism Program
23.4%, Only 20,666 children have active funding agreements () — less than one in four