Information for Families Regarding CYSN Changes
Autism Funding and Service Options for Families in Vancouver, BC
BC autism funding options can feel complex, especially after a new diagnosis. This page explains how current individualized autism funding works, which services it can be used for and how families in Vancouver, BC and the Fraser Valley can access support through funding, private payment or both. Our team can help you plan early intervention or individualized behaviour intervention.
What Are Your Autism Funding and Service Options?
Navigating funding and support services for your child can feel overwhelming. We believe families should have access to clear information and individualized guidance when exploring support for their children.
Depending on eligibility and the services required, families may access our services through available government funding programs, private payment or a combination of funding sources. Our intake team can help you understand the services we offer, explore potential funding pathways and identify appropriate next steps based on your child's needs and your family's priorities.
A formal diagnosis is not required to inquire about our services, and privately funded support may be available for neurodivergent and neurotypical children and youth alike. Funding eligibility, approved services and available amounts are determined by current program requirements and individual circumstances.
How Does Individualized BC Autism Funding Work?
BC Autism Funding provides individualized funding for children and youth with an autism diagnosis, which families use to pay for eligible intervention services. According to current provincial information:
Families of eligible children under 6 may receive up to $22,000 per year.
Families of eligible children and youth aged 6 to 18 may receive up to $6,000 per year.
Families choose their service providers and direct the funding toward eligible supports, following current program guidelines.
Which Services Can Autism Funding Be Used For?
For children under 6, funding may be used for professionals listed on the Registry of Autism Service Providers (RASP), Behaviour Interventionists supervised by a RASP professional, and certain related costs. For children aged 6 to 18, eligible supports include behaviour consultants or analysts, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, supervised Behaviour Interventionists, and life and social skills programs. Full details are on the Province's funding page.
How Can Families Use Autism Funding for Early Intervention and Behaviour Intervention?
Many families use individualized autism funding for comprehensive, BCBA-led programs that combine assessment, behaviour consultation, supervised direct intervention and caregiver coaching. Our intake team can explain how your funding may be used with our services and help you plan a program that fits your child's goals and your funding period.
What Should Families of Newly Diagnosed Children Do First?
Keep a copy of your child's diagnostic report.
Review the Province's autism funding information and application steps.
Book a free consultation to learn about early intervention and individualized support options.
Plan services with a provider while your funding is being set up.
Can Families Access Services Without Government Funding?
Yes. Families can access our services through private payment, with or without a diagnosis. Some extended health benefit plans may cover certain behavioural services, so check your plan for details.
Which Other Supports Might Families in BC Explore?
The federal Disability Tax Credit (DTC) may reduce income tax for people with a severe and prolonged impairment, or a supporting family member. Eligibility must be certified by a qualified practitioner, and approval may open access to other programs, such as the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and related benefits. If an application is not approved, families may be able to request a review or provide more information. The Access 2 pass allows people with permanent disabilities to bring a support person to participating venues for free or at a reduced price.
Where Can Families Find Official Funding Information?
How Can Families in Vancouver and the Fraser Valley Get Help With Autism Funding Questions?
Not sure where to begin? Our team can talk through your options and next steps. Call 604.736.0094, email [email protected] or book a free consultation.