Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area have one of Canada's strongest autism support networks � anchor institutions like Holland Bloorview and SickKids, alongside Ontario's Autism Programme (OAP) which provides government funding for therapy. Understanding how to access and navigate this system is essential for families who are new to it.
Getting a Diagnosis in Toronto
Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital
Holland Bloorview is Canada's largest paediatric rehabilitation hospital and a world leader in autism research and clinical services. Their Autism Spectrum Disorder team provides comprehensive assessments, early intervention, and family support. Waiting times for assessment are typically 6�18 months. Holland Bloorview also runs research programmes that sometimes offer assessment as part of participation.
SickKids � Autism Spectrum Disorder Services
The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) provides autism assessments through the Autism Spectrum Disorder Service. Referral is through a paediatrician or family doctor. Assessment includes developmental history, ADOS-2, and cognitive/language evaluations as needed. Waiting times are significant � often 12�24 months.
Private Psychoeducational Assessment � Toronto
Private psychologists and neuropsychologists in Toronto provide autism assessments outside the hospital system. Costs typically range from CAD 2,500�5,000. Waiting times for private assessments are much shorter � often 4�8 weeks. Private assessments are accepted by the Ontario Autism Programme and Toronto school boards for support planning.
Therapy, Support, and Key Organisations
Ontario Autism Programme (OAP)
The OAP provides direct funding for autism services to eligible Ontario children. Families receive a funding amount (currently CAD 5,000�20,000 per year depending on age and needs) that can be used for ABA therapy, speech therapy, OT, and other approved services. Registration is through the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services. OAP registration can begin as soon as a diagnosis is confirmed.
Autism Ontario � Toronto Chapter
Autism Ontario provides family support, education, and advocacy for autistic individuals and families across Ontario. The Toronto chapter runs workshops, support groups, and connects families with local services. Their Resource Directory is a comprehensive guide to Toronto autism services. Autism Ontario also provides guidance on navigating the OAP.
ABA and Therapy Providers � Toronto
Toronto has a large number of OAP-approved ABA providers, speech therapy practices, and OT clinics. OAP funding can be used at approved providers � check the OAP provider directory. For families using OAP direct funding, the choice of provider is flexible. BCBA-supervised ABA typically costs CAD 50�150 per hour.
School Support in Toronto
Toronto and the GTA are served by several school boards � Toronto District School Board (TDSB), Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB), Peel, York, Durham, and Halton for surrounding areas.
- IPRC (Identification, Placement, and Review Committee): This is the Ontario process for identifying students with exceptionalities and determining their placement. Parents can request an IPRC. An IEP (Individual Education Plan) follows the IPRC identification.
- Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC): Each school board has a SEAC with parent representation � a useful resource for understanding board-specific policies and advocacy options.
- Autism exceptionality: Once identified, students with autism receive an IEP outlining accommodations, modifications, and the specific supports the school will provide.
- Extended Day Programme (EDP): Some Ontario schools provide extended day programming for students with significant needs. Ask your principal about availability.
While You Are Waiting for an Appointment
Holland Bloorview and SickKids waiting lists are long, but OAP registration can begin as soon as a diagnosis is confirmed � even from a private assessment. Families who get a private assessment early can start OAP-funded therapy months before they would have if they waited for a hospital assessment.
While waiting, Autism Ontario's resources and the parent community around Holland Bloorview's Family Resource Centre provide practical navigation support. Nesto's home activities are available in English, French, and 17 other languages.
If you have moved to Ontario from another country with an existing autism diagnosis, that diagnosis is generally accepted for OAP registration purposes. Bring the original assessment report. You will need an Ontario physician to provide a referral letter alongside the existing diagnosis documentation. Autism Ontario's newcomer resources are specifically useful for families who are navigating the Canadian system for the first time.
Support Your Child at Home While You Wait
Nesto provides structured home activities, progress tracking, and screening tools for parents � available in 19 languages. Free for all families.
Explore Home ActivitiesAbout This Page
This page provides a general guide for families in Toronto seeking autism support. OAP funding amounts and eligibility criteria change regularly � always verify current information at the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services website or through Autism Ontario. For the diagnosis process, see how to get an autism diagnosis.
If you are concerned about your child's development, speak to your family doctor or paediatrician about a referral.