Behaviour Therapy
Also known as: behavioural therapy
What does Behaviour Therapy mean?
Behaviour therapy is a broad term covering a range of supports designed to help children build skills, understand their own behaviour, communicate their needs, stay safe, and manage emotions and everyday situations more comfortably. It is not about making a child behave perfectly — it is about understanding what a behaviour is communicating and finding positive ways to support the child. Approaches and methods can vary widely, so it is worth learning about the specific type of behaviour therapy being recommended for your child.
Why this term matters
For autistic children and their families, behaviour therapy can support skill-building in areas like communication, daily routines, self-regulation, and social interaction — and can also help families learn strategies to use at home and in the community. Understanding what approach is being used and why helps families make informed choices that are the right fit for their child and their values.
Canadian context
Behaviour therapy is one of the most commonly funded autism supports across Canadian provinces and territories, though the specific approaches covered, the amount of funding available, and the eligibility criteria are all determined by each province or territory's own programs. Families are encouraged to ask their program administrator what types of behaviour therapy are recognized under the funding available in their region.
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