Frequently asked questions
What families want to know.
We believe families should have the information they need to make a confident next-step decision.
What is ABA therapy, and how does it help children with autism?
ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is a science-backed therapy that helps children improve communication, social, self-help, and daily living skills while reducing challenging behaviours. Our programs are personalized and delivered in your home to promote real-life learning and generalization.
Do you accept OAP funding?
Yes. AspireAutism is a registered Ontario Autism Program service provider and is listed on the official OAP provider list, so families can use Core Clinical Services funding for eligible therapy services.
What age groups do you serve?
We provide ABA therapy for children and teens ages 2 to 18, with programs tailored to each developmental stage and skill level.
How long is each therapy session?
Sessions are generally a minimum of 2 hours. New clients may begin with a 1-hour pairing session, then gradually work up to longer sessions based on readiness. Session lengths can range from 2 to 5 hours.
What makes in-home therapy effective?
Therapy takes place in your child's natural environment, where we can target real-life skills at the dinner table, during play, and in daily routines. This supports parent involvement, natural learning, and generalization.
Do you offer community-based sessions?
Depending on your goals, therapists can work on grocery shopping, road safety, ordering at restaurants, social situations, public transit, money skills, appointments, and recreational activities.
How long before my child can start therapy?
Our streamlined process means many families can start within 7–10 business days after the consultation, subject to assessment, scheduling, and service fit.
Who delivers the therapy sessions?
Sessions are delivered by Behaviour Therapists and supported by BCBAs, Registered Behaviour Analysts, and Senior Therapists.
How do you track progress?
Parents receive real-time access to the same platform therapists use for session notes and progress tracking, plus a detailed monthly progress report and optional monthly check-ins with a Senior Therapist.
Do parents participate in therapy?
Absolutely. Parent involvement is key to long-term success, and we offer 1-on-1 parent education so families can reinforce skills between sessions.
What happens before therapy begins?
A qualified Assessment Manager visits for a comprehensive 2-hour assessment across more than 50 developmental skill areas. Families then receive a detailed assessment report to guide the individualized plan.
Where are you located?
We serve families across Ontario, with in-home teams in communities including Kitchener, London, North York, Oshawa, Mississauga, Toronto, Hamilton, Brampton, and surrounding areas. Virtual ABA is available across the province.
Do you offer services in the community too?
Yes. Depending on your goals, therapists can support real-life skills in community settings such as grocery stores, restaurants, public transit, appointments, and recreational activities.
Is there a deposit required to start?
No. We don’t require a deposit to begin services. We believe therapy should be as accessible and stress-free as possible for families.
Who will be on my child’s care team?
Your care team may include a Behaviour Therapist, Senior Therapist, Registered Behaviour Analyst or BCBA, Scheduling Manager, and Director of Family Services, working together around your child’s plan.
Is therapy available after school or on weekends?
Yes. We offer flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, subject to current team availability and the needs of your family.
What happens when we get started?
We start with a conversation about your child, what’s going well, and where you’d like more support. The first few sessions give your child time to get comfortable while we learn about their strengths and needs. Your RBA then uses what we learn, alongside your priorities, to create a personalized behaviour plan with goals that matter to your family.
How does virtual ABA work?
You meet with your Instructor Therapist over a live video call from home. They guide activities based on your child’s behaviour plan, work with your child, and coach you through strategies you can use together. Your RBA provides clinical supervision and reviews how the plan is progressing.
What do we need to participate in sessions?
You’ll need a reliable internet connection, a computer or tablet with a camera and microphone, and a comfortable space where you and your child can take part. You don’t need a dedicated therapy room or a perfect home setup.
Will I be involved in my child’s sessions?
Yes. A parent or caregiver takes an active role, especially when a child needs help participating. Your therapist explains what to do and supports you throughout.
Do I need to know anything about ABA before we start?
No. You bring your knowledge of your child, and we bring the clinical guidance. Your therapist explains the strategies, demonstrates them, and gives you time to practise and ask questions.
What if my child finds it hard to sit still or engage with a screen?
Your child doesn’t have to sit at a screen for the whole session. Activities can include movement and everyday tasks, with you helping while the therapist guides you. During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether virtual sessions are a good fit.
What can virtual ABA help my child work on?
Goals can include communication, social skills, emotional regulation, daily routines, hygiene, toileting, and greater independence. Your RBA helps identify the goals and approach that fit your child.
Does it matter where we live for virtual ABA?
We support families anywhere in Ontario through virtual ABA. Whether you live in a city, a small town, or a remote Northern community, you can connect with our team from home.
Who creates my child’s virtual behaviour plan?
Your Registered Behaviour Analyst develops the behaviour plan and provides clinical supervision. Your Instructor Therapist leads sessions and helps put the plan into practice with your child and family.
How will I know how my child is progressing?
We set clear goals and track how your child is doing during sessions. Your observations at home matter too, and we’ll talk with you about what’s improving and whether the plan needs to change.