Funding Options for Speech Therapy in Ontario

Do you have questions about funding?

Private speech and language services are not covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan). Below, we will discuss funding options for therapy. 

Private insurance companies 

Many private insurance companies cover a specific amount for speech and language services. Some insurance companies require a doctor’s referral prior to authorizing coverage. Check with your insurance company for coverage details. 

Local government-funded services  

If your child is under 5 years old, they may qualify for free, government-funded services with your local treatment center. The treatment center within the Peel Region is ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development (905-855-2690). Treatment Centers offer support within a range of areas including speech and language, feeding, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, autism, and assistive devices. Caregivers can self-refer by contacting the centers directly. 

Government-funded support in-daycare can be accessed through Peel Inclusion Resource Services (PIRS) (905-890-9432). A PIRS resource consultant can support your child’s educators in daycare by providing strategies and resources.  

Early ON Centres centers are free, high-quality drop-in programs for families with children 6 and under. Early On centers provide children with a space to play and socialize with peers with their caregivers present, and support families seeking convenient, accessible, play-based learning activities with their children. Find an EarlyON child and family centre near you. The Parent/Caregiver-Child Mother Goose Program introduces rhymes, songs and stories. It is offered at many Ontario Early ON Centres.  

If your child is school-aged, they may qualify for speech and language support in school. Discuss this option with your child’s teacher. Due to long wait lists, connect with your child’s local treatment center or school as soon as possible to add your child to the wait list.

Provincial government-funded programs:  

1. Child Disability Benefit: A tax-free monthly payment made to families who care for a child under age 18 with a severe and prolonged impairment in physical or mental functions.
2. Ontario Autism Program: Provides support, funding, and service options for families with autistic children.
3. Assistance to Children with Severe Disabilities: Provides financial support to help families caring for a child with severe disabilities.
4. Ontario Disability Support Program: Provides financial support for people with disabilities.
5. Special Services at Home: Provides funding to help with costs related to respite, personal growth and development for your child with physical and/or developmental disabilities.

Charitable organizations:  

1. Ceridan Cares: Provides financial assistance to families that require support.
2. LaBatt Better Together: Provides Canadian communities support by provides basic essentials and other support services to improve the quality of life of individuals and families in need.
3. Jennifer Ashleigh Children’s Charity: Ontario-based program providing financial assistance for children with special treatment needs and medical expenses.
4. Smile Canada Support Services: Dedicated to supporting racialized children with youth and disabilities and their families. Their focus is diverse Muslim communities including refugee and new immigrant families. Financial assistance is available in form of ‘scholarships’ to families.

 If you have questions or need assistance in accessing the resources above, contact us below!