Autism Services

Clinical counselling services are available for children and youth on the autism spectrum in British Columbia (BC), as well as for parents of children on the autism spectrum. Services can be directly billed to the Autism Funding Unit (AFU).

Autism counselling for children and youth in British Columbia focuses on building practical skills that support emotional well-being, independence, and social connection. Areas of support may include:

• Emotion expression and emotional regulation

• Social skills development

• Communication skills

• Executive functioning (organization, planning, flexibility, task initiation)

Sessions are individualized, goal-focused and strengths-based. While counselling approaches are grounded in evidence-based talk therapy modalities, sessions may incorporate play, art, movement, and sensory regulation activities to increase engagement and comfort. Children and youth participating in counselling must be able to engage in conversation as part of the therapeutic process.

Parenting can be amazing, overwhelming, loving, and challenging. Counselling support is available for parents of children on the autism spectrum across British Columbia.

Parent counselling may support with:

• Grief or loss associated with a new diagnosis

• Emotion regulation and coping strategies

• Executive functioning strategies within the home

• Feelings of worry, stress, or anxiety

• Navigating school, medical, and community systems in BC

Parent and family counselling provides a supportive, non-judgmental space to process experiences, build resilience, and develop practical strategies tailored to your family’s needs.