FAQ

Most frequently asked questions

What is ABA therapy?

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is a scientific, evidence-based approach to teaching meaningful behaviours and reducing barriers to learning. It is rooted in the principles of behaviour and adapted to meet the needs of each individual. Click Here to learn more!

What is contextual behavioural science?

Contextual behavioural science is the foundation of modern behavioural interventions like ACT and RFT. It emphasizes understanding behaviour in context — including history, environment, and personal values — and seeks to promote psychological flexibility and well-being.

What is Relational Frame Theory (RFT)?

RFT is a behavioral science model that explains how people learn language and think flexibly by relating things to each other (e.g., “bigger than,” “opposite of,” “same as”). For early learners, RFT helps us teach generative language—so kids don’t just memorize words, they start combining and applying them in new ways. For older or more advanced learners, RFT connects to skills like problem solving, perspective‑taking, and even the ACT work we do around thoughts and feelings. In short: RFT helps us move beyond rote teaching and build real understanding that transfers to everyday life. Click Here and Here to learn more!

What is Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT)?

ACT is a behaviour-analytic framework we use to help children (and caregivers) act in ways that matter to them—even when things are hard. Instead of trying to “get rid” of uncomfortable thoughts or feelings, ACT helps people notice them, make room for them, and still choose actions aligned with their goals and values. We use ACT within our ABA scope to build psychological flexibility—so kids can tolerate change, keep trying after mistakes, and do the things that are important to them. Click Here to learn more!

What is Precision Teaching?

Precision Teaching is a way of measuring learning that focuses on how fast and accurate a skill becomes over time. We track responses (like words read, math facts answered, or requests made) and chart them to see growth clearly and quickly. Why it matters: it lets us spot progress (or plateaus) right away, so we can adjust teaching before anyone gets stuck or frustrated. It’s not a curriculum—it’s a powerful measurement tool that helps us make sure teaching is actually working for your child. Check out our blog post for more info

Determining Need and Service Options

Does my child need ABA therapy?

Not every child needs ABA, but many benefit from its structured, individualized approach — especially those experiencing developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, or behavioural challenges.

What’s the difference between focused and comprehensive ABA?

Focused ABA targets one or two specific goals, usually requiring 3–20 hours per week. Comprehensive ABA targets multiple developmental domains and is typically 20–40 hours per week. Intensity is always determined based on assessment and individual need.

What is the Minimum Intensity of ABA services that is recommended?

We recommend a minimum of 3 hours per week. Dosage is determined following a clinical assessment and varies based on individual need.

Do you provide psychotherapy or counselling services?

No. We are not licensed mental health providers and do not offer psychotherapy or counselling. While we incorporate elements of Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) within our behaviour analytic scope, ACT is used as an intervention to teach behavioural flexibility, not as psychotherapy. Our services are based in applied behaviour analysis and delivered within the scope of practice of behaviour analysts. Click Here to learn more!

What are Foundational Family Services (FFS)?

Foundational Family Services are free supports available to all families registered in the Ontario Autism Program (no funding needed). They’re designed to give you tools to support your child’s learning and development. At Flourish, our FFS offerings currently include caregiver consultations, our comprehensive sleep service, social groups (e.g., Canvas Art & ABA, Social Gaming), and workshops. Check with us for what’s running now.

Service Delivery and Access

Do you offer virtual therapy?

Yes, when appropriate. Virtual services depend on the individual needs and learning style of the client. We assess fit during the intake process.

Do you offer school or daycare collaboration?

We’re happy to provide services at schools or daycares when it’s permitted by the setting. Each school and child care centre has its own policies around external providers, and space can sometimes be limited. Families are encouraged to speak with their school or daycare to explore whether on-site support is possible. If permitted, our team can work in collaboration with those environments to deliver treatment aligned with your child’s goals.

What if my child can’t receive treatment at school or daycare?

If school or daycare-based sessions aren’t possible, we can offer services at our Garson clinic or in your home. We’ll help determine the setting that works best for your child and family.

Cost and Payment

How much does ABA therapy cost?

The cost of services depends on the type and intensity of support your child receives — for example, whether they’re in focused or comprehensive ABA, and how many hours per week are recommended. After your consultation and assessment, we’ll provide a clear breakdown of fees. Our team can also help you navigate your funding options, such as OAP, Jordan’s Principle, or extended health benefits.

How can we pay for services?

We accept Jordan’s Principle, OAP Core Clinical budgets, and private pay. Now that Behaviour Analysts are regulated by the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario, some extended health plans may reimburse ABA services. Families pay us directly and then submit receipts to their insurer. Private‑pay families should also know that Behaviour Analysts in Ontario are recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) as authorized medical practitioners for the Medical Expense Tax Credit (effective July 1, 2024).

Flourish’s Approach and Values

You say “Televisibility” is one of Flourish’s values… what does that mean?

Televisibility is our commitment to radical transparency and dignity in care. Borrowing the term from Dr. Greg Hanley, it means we deliver services we’d be proud to have broadcast on the 6 p.m. news—every session, every day. ABA has a painful history for many autistic people; we acknowledge that and commit to doing better. At Flourish, sessions are assent-based, built on choice, and include co‑regulation and support during tough moments—not restraint or coercion. You can also see what’s happening: through HiRasmus and open communication, you have real-time access to notes and data. In short, televisibility means nothing is hidden, and everything we do is something we can (and will) stand behind.

What other community resources are available?

Autism Ontario is a great place to start for provincial resources, events, and parent supports. Visit autismontario.com for regional chapters, webinars, and funding information.

Getting Started with Services

What does the process look like from start to finish for a child/youth receiving 1 on 1 ABA therapy?
  • Initial Meeting: We review informed consent and a service agreement (logistics, expectations—not a long contract).
  • Individualized Assessment: We look at strengths, needs, and priorities.
  • Treatment Plan: We summarize findings and co‑create goals with you.
  • Therapy Begins: Supervised Instructor Therapists deliver treatment; a Clinical Supervisor oversees progress.
  • Ongoing Reviews: We complete periodic re‑assessments and share reports to adjust goals as needed.
  • Fading & Transition Planning: From the beginning, we discuss how support will change over time—intensity may step down, pause, or end when goals are met. We plan that transition with you and outline how to reconnect if new needs arise.
Where is your office?

190 Church Street, Unit 2, Garson (Greater Sudbury). When you enter the building, head downstairs—you’ll see our sign. Let us know if you require accessibility accommodations prior to your visit.

How do I get started?

Fill out our online contact form!

Our admin staff will connect with you to help determine next steps.