Using Autism Funding in BC for Registered Clinical Counselling: A Guide for Parents
If you have a child or teen with autism in British Columbia, you may already know about the Autism Funding Program offered by the province. This funding helps families access essential support services for their child’s development and well-being. But did you know that registered clinical counselling is an eligible expense?
Working with a registered clinical counsellor can provide tremendous benefits for children and teens on the autism spectrum. Let’s explore how this funding works and why counselling can be a valuable part of your child’s support system.
How Does Autism Funding Work?
In BC, families of children and teens with autism can receive funding through two main programs:
Under 6 Years Old – Up to $22,000 per year for therapies and supports.
Ages 6 to 18 – Up to $6,000 per year to help with interventions that improve your child’s skills, development, and quality of life.
Parents can choose from a list of eligible services, and registered clinical counselling is one of them. This means you can use your child’s autism funding to cover counselling sessions, as long as the counsellor is approved by the Registry of Autism Service Providers (RASP) or is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) or Registered Social Worker (RSW).
Why is Counselling Helpful for Children and Teens with Autism?
Many children and teens on the autism spectrum experience challenges with emotions, social interactions, anxiety, and self-regulation. A registered clinical counsellor can help with:
1. Emotional Regulation
Children with autism often struggle with big emotions and may have difficulty expressing or controlling them. Counselling provides a safe space to learn coping strategies, mindfulness techniques, and ways to manage stress.
2. Social Skills & Communication
A counsellor can help children and teens develop better social awareness, practice conversations, and understand emotions in themselves and others. This can make interactions with friends, family, and teachers much easier.
3. Anxiety & Stress Management
Many kids with autism experience high levels of anxiety, especially in social situations or new environments. A counsellor can teach practical tools to reduce stress and build confidence in handling daily challenges.
4. Building Self-Esteem
Having autism can sometimes make kids feel different or left out. A counsellor can support them in recognizing their strengths, developing a positive self-image, and feeling proud of who they are.
5. Supporting Transitions & Life Changes
Big life changes—like starting a new school, making friends, or preparing for adulthood—can be overwhelming. Counselling helps children and teens navigate transitions with more ease and less stress.
How to Use Autism Funding for Counselling
If you’re interested in using your child’s autism funding for counselling, follow these simple steps:
Find a Counsellor – Look for a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), Registered Social Worker (RSW), or a professional listed in the Registry of Autism Service Providers (RASP).
Confirm Eligibility – Make sure the counsellor accepts autism funding and has experience working with children or teens on the spectrum.
Submit an Invoice – After booking sessions, you’ll need to submit an invoice to the Autism Funding Unit for reimbursement.
Keep Track of Sessions – Regular counselling can make a big difference, so try to schedule consistent sessions to help your child see progress.
Investing in Your Child’s Well-Being
Counselling is not just about managing challenges—it’s about helping your child thrive. With the right support, children and teens with autism can develop important life skills, build confidence, and feel more understood. If you haven’t yet considered using your autism funding for counselling, it might be the perfect time to start!
For more details on BC’s Autism Funding Program, visit the BC Government’s Autism Support website or speak to a registered clinical counsellor in your area.
