How Much Does ABA Therapy Cost in Canada? A Complete Guide for Parents
Introduction
ABA therapy is a highly effective approach for children needing support in behavior and skill development. But one of the most common questions parents ask is: “How much does ABA therapy cost in Canada?”
The answer isn’t simple — costs vary based on session type, frequency, location, and provider experience. In this guide, we break down ABA therapy costs, what factors affect pricing, and ways to make it more affordable.
Average ABA Therapy Cost in Canada
The cost of ABA therapy in Canada can vary widely depending on several factors:
Hourly rate: $40 – $150 per hour
Weekly sessions: Typically 5–20 hours per week
Monthly cost: $800 – $6,000 (depending on session frequency)
Full program cost: Intensive programs (20+ hours/week) can reach $30,000+ per year
Keep in mind these are general estimates. Prices can differ between provinces and private clinics.
Factors Affecting ABA Therapy Pricing
Several elements influence the cost of ABA therapy in Canada:
1. Type of Provider
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT): Lower hourly rates
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): Higher rates due to advanced qualifications
2. Therapy Intensity
Short-term sessions: Cost less overall
Intensive programs: 20+ hours per week can increase total cost significantly
3. Location
Costs vary by province or city. Major urban centers like Toronto, Vancouver, or Calgary often charge higher rates compared to smaller towns.
4. In-Home vs Clinic Sessions
In-home therapy may include travel fees
Clinic-based therapy may reduce cost but could be less convenient
5. Additional Support
Program design, assessments, and reports by BCBAs may add to the total cost
Insurance and Government Coverage in Canada
Many families in Canada can offset ABA therapy costs through insurance or government programs:
Private insurance: Some plans cover ABA therapy partially
Provincial funding: Certain provinces offer funding or subsidies for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Grants or charities: Nonprofits sometimes provide financial assistance for therapy
Always check eligibility and required documentation to maximize coverage.
Tips to Make ABA Therapy More Affordable
Combine clinic and in-home sessions for cost-effective programs
Check provincial funding programs and grants
Ask about sliding scale rates from providers
Consider group therapy sessions when suitable
Plan a structured therapy schedule to optimize hours and reduce unnecessary costs
ABA Therapy vs Other Therapy Costs
Compared to other approaches like play therapy or speech therapy:
| Therapy Type | Average Cost in Canada | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ABA Therapy | $40 – $150 per hour | Structured, intensive, goal-oriented |
| Play Therapy | $60 – $120 per hour | Focuses on emotional and social skills |
| Speech Therapy | $50 – $120 per hour | Targets communication skills |
ABA therapy may appear more expensive, but its structured, measurable approach often leads to faster, more sustainable progress for children with ASD.
Conclusion
The cost of ABA therapy in Canada depends on factors like session intensity, provider type, location, and additional services. While it can be expensive, understanding the variables, exploring funding options, and planning sessions strategically can make therapy more affordable for families.
Investing in a structured ABA program provides long-term benefits, helping children reach their potential while supporting families effectively.
FAQs
ABA has been researched and evaluated for over five decades and has been endorsed by Federal and Provincial organizations in Canada, as well as the U.S. Surgeon General, National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Association for Science in Autism Treatment in the US.
Some of the best states for ABA therapy include Massachusetts, California, New Jersey, Colorado, and Florida. These states have a high number of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), strong insurance mandates, and well-established therapy centers offering in-home, clinic-based, and school-based ABA services.
Allow processing time
Pauses give your autistic pupils processing time. As a general rule, give at least 10 seconds. More or less time may be needed dependant on: the pupil.