Funding & Financial Resources

Speech Therapy Funding in BCMaking Therapy Accessible for Everyone

Quality speech therapy shouldn't be limited by finances. Discover the many funding options available to BC residents—from government programs to insurance coverage and charitable grants.

$22,000

Max Autism Funding/Year

10+

Funding Sources

No

Referral Required

Good News: You Have Options

While BC's Medical Services Plan (MSP) doesn't cover private speech therapy, many families access funding through other sources. Our team helps you navigate these options to maximize your coverage.

Government programs for eligible children
Extended health insurance benefits
WorkSafeBC & ICBC coverage
Charitable grants and subsidies

Pro Tip

From our funding specialists

"Many families don't realize they can combine multiple funding sources. Start with your extended health benefits, then explore government programs and charity grants to cover any remaining costs."

Funding Sources

Explore Your Options

BC Government Funding Programs

These programs are administered by the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD). Eligibility and funding amounts vary by program.

Most Common

BC Autism Funding Program

Ministry of Children & Family Development

Up to $22,000/year (under 6) or $6,000/year (6-18)

Eligibility

  • Child must have a formal autism diagnosis
  • BC resident with valid BC Health Card
  • Ages birth to 18 years

What's Covered

  • Speech-language pathology assessments
  • Ongoing speech therapy sessions
  • Communication device training
  • Family training and support
Processing: 4-8 weeks
Learn More

At Home Program (AHP)

Ministry of Children & Family Development

Varies by assessed need

Eligibility

  • Child has significant disability requiring daily care
  • Child lives at home with family
  • Family is BC resident

What's Covered

  • Speech therapy services
  • Respite care
  • Medical equipment
  • Nursing services
Processing: 6-12 weeks
Learn More

Post Adoption Assistance (PAA)

Ministry of Children & Family Development

Varies based on child's needs

Eligibility

  • Child adopted through BC MCFD
  • Child has identified special needs
  • Adoption finalized in BC

What's Covered

  • Speech-language assessments
  • Therapy sessions
  • Communication supports
  • Related medical services
Processing: 4-6 weeks
Learn More

School-Aged Extended Therapies

Ministry of Children & Family Development

Varies by program

Eligibility

  • Currently receiving At Home Program benefits
  • School-aged child (5-18)
  • Documented therapy needs

What's Covered

  • Extended speech therapy
  • Summer therapy programs
  • School transition support
Processing: 2-4 weeks

Quick Reference

Which Funding Might Work for You?

For Children (0-18)

  • Autism diagnosis? BC Autism Funding (up to $22K/year)
  • Special needs? At Home Program, Variety grants
  • Adopted through MCFD? Post Adoption Assistance
  • Parent has insurance? Extended health benefits

For Adults

  • Have work benefits? Extended health insurance
  • Workplace injury? WorkSafeBC coverage
  • Car accident? ICBC injury claim
  • Veteran? Veterans Affairs Canada

FAQ

Common Funding Questions

No! In BC, you don't need a physician referral to see a speech-language pathologist. You can self-refer directly to our clinic. However, some insurance plans and funding programs may require a referral for reimbursement, so check your specific plan requirements.

Let Us Help You Navigate Funding

Book a free 15-minute consultation. We'll discuss your situation and help identify the best funding options for your speech therapy needs.