introduction

If you’re the parent or caregiver of a child with autism in Ontario, you’ve likely heard of the Ontario Autism Program (OAP). But knowing what the program includes and how it helps can be a little confusing, especially with all the changes over recent years.

That’s why we’ve put together this full breakdown of the Ontario Autism Program: What Services Are Available?. Whether you’re exploring early intervention, school readiness, or ongoing therapy, this guide will walk you through all the options currently offered under the OAP and how you can access them for your child.

At KickStart Therapy, we specialize in supporting families just like yours—helping you navigate the OAP and provide your child with compassionate, expert care at every stage of development.

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What Is the Ontario Autism Program?

The Ontario Autism Program is a government-funded initiative that provides support services for children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It is open to Ontario residents under 18 years of age who have a confirmed autism diagnosis.

The goal of the program is to offer personalized, flexible, and needs-based support to help children with autism develop critical life skills, improve communication, and participate more fully in everyday life.

Unlike earlier versions of the program that provided set amounts based on age, the updated OAP (as of 2025) is centered around individual needs. This means that services and funding are tailored to what each child requires, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

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How to Get Started with OAP

To access services, you first need to register through AccessOAP, the province’s centralized platform for the program.

Here’s how the process works:

1. Get a Diagnosis – Your child must have a written autism diagnosis from a qualified professional.

2. Register with AccessOAP – Visit www.accessoap.ca to create your account and upload your documents.

3. Complete an Intake Interview – A care coordinator will contact you to help assess your child’s needs.

4. Access Services – Once enrolled, you’ll be matched with the services that best support your child.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the wide range of services available under the OAP.

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Ontario Autism Program: What Services Are Available?

The Ontario Autism Program currently includes five major service categories. Each one plays a unique role in supporting your child’s development and your family’s needs.

1. Foundational Family Services

These are free, entry-level services offered to all families registered with the OAP. The goal is to empower parents and caregivers with tools and education that support their child’s development.

Examples include:

• Group workshops and webinars

• One-on-one coaching sessions

• Parent peer support groups

• Behavioural consultation

• Strategies for managing daily routines

At KickStart Therapy, we offer foundational family services that help you build confidence and practical skills to support your child’s progress at home.

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2. Caregiver-Mediated Early Years Programs

This service is designed for children aged 12 to 48 months. These short-term programs are guided by a therapist but delivered by you—the parent or caregiver—with support and coaching.

You’ll learn to:

• Improve your child’s communication and play skills

• Support emotional regulation

• Promote social engagement through everyday interactions

This is an excellent first step for younger children and a great way to build your own skills as a parent.

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3. Core Clinical Services

This is the heart of the OAP and includes evidence-based therapy such as:

• Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)

• Speech-Language Pathology

• Occupational Therapy

• Mental Health Supports

These services are delivered by licensed providers like KickStart Therapy. Your child may receive one or a combination of these services depending on their individual needs.

Let’s break each one down:

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)

ABA is one of the most researched and effective therapies for children with autism. It uses reinforcement techniques to improve skills in areas like:

• Communication

• Daily living

• Social interaction

• Problem-solving

• Reducing unsafe or disruptive behaviours

We offer both one-on-one and group-based ABA services, customized to your child’s goals.

Speech-Language Therapy

This service supports:

• Expressive language (how your child speaks)

• Receptive language (how your child understands others)

• Non-verbal communication

• Social interaction in conversations

Our speech-language pathologists create fun, engaging therapy sessions that help children communicate more confidently and clearly.

Occupational Therapy (OT)

OT helps children improve their ability to do everyday tasks. This might include:

• Fine motor skills (writing, using utensils)

• Sensory regulation (handling different textures, sounds)

• Self-care (brushing teeth, getting dressed)

• Motor planning and coordination

At KickStart, our OTs work one-on-one with children to build independence and confidence.

Mental Health Services

Children and families dealing with autism often face emotional stress, anxiety, or behavioural challenges. Mental health support can include:

• Counselling

• Behavioural support planning

• Emotional regulation strategies

Our team integrates mental wellness into all therapy plans to support the whole child.

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4. Entry to School Program

This service is for children aged 3 to 6 who are preparing to begin kindergarten. It’s a six-month, group-based program designed to help kids adjust to the routines and expectations of school life.

Focus areas include:

• Listening and following instructions

• Interacting with peers

• Transitioning between activities

• Sitting for group lessons

• Emotional regulation in a classroom setting

KickStart Therapy offers school readiness programs that blend ABA and educational best practices to ease your child’s transition into school.

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5. Urgent and Complex Needs Services

Some children with autism have complex needs that require urgent, multidisciplinary intervention. The OAP includes supports for these situations, including:

• Crisis planning

• Rapid response teams

• Coordinated care across multiple providers

If you are facing an urgent situation, AccessOAP can connect you to these services quickly.

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How Does Funding Work?

The Ontario Autism Program provides funding through individualized budgets. After your child’s needs are assessed, you’ll receive a funding amount based on:

• Age

• Developmental level

• Type and intensity of support needed

You can use your budget to purchase services from any qualified provider. KickStart Therapy is proud to be an approved provider, and we’ll work closely with you to create a treatment plan that fits your child’s goals and funding level.

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Why Choose KickStart Therapy?

At KickStart Therapy, we understand that navigating autism services can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone.

Here’s how we help:

• We support you through the OAP registration process

• We offer all key services under one roof

• We personalize therapy plans to match your child’s learning style

• We provide regular progress updates and goal-setting meetings

• We empower you as a parent with coaching and practical tools

Our clinic is built on compassion, expertise, and a deep belief in every child’s ability to grow and succeed.

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Conclusion

Understanding the Ontario Autism Program: What Services Are Available? is the first step to getting the support your child deserves. From early years coaching to school readiness, speech therapy, ABA, and beyond—the OAP is designed to provide families with the flexibility and tools to create meaningful change.

At KickStart Therapy, we’re here to help you navigate the system, understand your options, and get started on a journey of progress and hope. If you’re ready to take the next step, we invite you to reach out to our team. Let’s work together to give your child the strongest foundation possible.

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