Your child will work directly with Amy Simon, the founder of Mini Minds and a senior behaviour therapist with more than 15 years of experience in autism and behavioural therapy.

This is one of the most important ways Mini Minds is different from larger therapy clinics. At many clinics, you might meet with a senior therapist for an initial assessment, but then your child is assigned to a junior therapist or rotating staff members for ongoing sessions. That inconsistency can be really challenging for children with autism, who often thrive on routine and familiar relationships.

At Mini Minds, you get a personal, boutique approach. From the free consultation all the way through ongoing therapy, you're working directly with Amy. She's the one who gets to know your child, builds a therapeutic relationship with them, creates their personalized plan, delivers their therapy sessions, and provides regular updates to you and your child's support circle.

Why does this matter?

Consistency: Your child works with the same person every time, which helps them feel safe, build trust, and engage more fully in therapy.

Expertise: You're getting direct access to a senior-level professional with 15+ years of experience, not a newly graduated therapist still learning the ropes. Amy has worked with hundreds of families and has seen what works and what doesn't.

Relationship: Amy takes the time to truly understand your child as an individual, their personality, their strengths, their challenges, what motivates them, and what makes them unique. That deep understanding makes therapy more effective.

Accountability: There's no wondering who's responsible for your child's progress or who to talk to if you have questions. It's Amy, every time.

Many families come to Mini Minds specifically because they want this level of personal attention and consistency. They've had experiences at larger clinics where they felt like just another case number, or where their child struggled with constantly changing therapists. At Mini Minds, you're not a number. You're a family that Amy knows, cares about, and is personally invested in helping.

This direct, personal approach also means Amy is deeply involved in every aspect of your child's care. She's the one meeting with teachers, providing parent training, adjusting strategies, and advocating for your child's needs. You're not working with a team of people you barely know. You're working with Amy, and that makes all the difference.

One of Mini Minds' testimonials comes from a family who worked with Amy for over three years. That kind of long-term relationship, built on trust and consistency, is only possible because of this personal, boutique model.

Want to meet Amy and see if she's the right fit for your child? Book your free consultation today.

We know cost is an important consideration for families, and Mini Minds believes in being completely transparent about pricing from the very beginning.

All services at Mini Minds are billed at Amy's hourly rate, which is discussed openly during your free consultation. There are no hidden fees, no surprise charges, and no pressure. You'll know exactly what to expect before you make any commitment.

The hourly rate covers everything: one-on-one behavioural therapy sessions with your child, regular progress reports and updates, training and strategy sessions with you as parents or caregivers, meetings with educators and school staff, and ongoing advocacy and day-to-day support. You're not just paying for therapy sessions. You're getting comprehensive support for your entire family.

What about insurance or funding?

Mini Minds is a private practice, which means services are private pay. Amy doesn't bill insurance companies or government funding programs like FSCD directly. However, many families are able to get reimbursement or support in other ways.

Amy provides detailed receipts and documentation for all services, which many families successfully submit to their private insurance providers for reimbursement. Some insurance plans cover behavioural therapy, psychological services, or autism-related supports. It's worth checking your specific plan to see what's covered.

Additionally, some families use these receipts for tax purposes, as therapy services may be eligible for medical expense deductions. Amy can work with you to provide whatever documentation you need.

The advantage of private pay is that you get immediate access to a senior-level therapist with 15+ years of experience. There are no waitlists, no bureaucratic approvals, and no restrictions on the number of sessions or type of support your child can receive. You and Amy decide together what your child needs, and you move forward at the pace that's right for your family

The free consultation is the perfect time to discuss your specific financial situation and explore what works for your family. Amy understands that every family's circumstances are different, and she's happy to have an honest conversation about how Mini Minds can fit into your life.

Have questions about pricing or want to discuss your options? Book your free consultation to get all the details.

Yes, absolutely. Mini Minds works with children experiencing a wide range of behavioural and developmental challenges, and Amy has 15+ years of experience creating solutions that work.

Whether your child is struggling with emotional regulation and frequent meltdowns, anxiety about school or specific situations, social skills and making friends, communication difficulties, challenging behaviours at home or school, daily living skills like eating or personal hygiene, or academic struggles and focus issues, Amy can help.

Here's how Mini Minds addresses specific challenges:

Meltdowns and emotional regulation: Amy uses a combination of ABA therapy and CBT techniques to help children recognize their emotions, understand what triggers big feelings, and develop healthy coping strategies. This might include deep breathing exercises, visual supports to identify emotions, sensory tools, or structured routines that reduce stress. Over time, children learn to manage frustration and anxiety more effectively, leading to fewer and less intense meltdowns.

School refusal and anxiety: If your child is anxious about school, Amy works to understand the root cause. Is it sensory overload, social challenges, academic pressure, or fear of transitions? Once the trigger is identified, Amy creates a gradual, supportive plan to help your child feel safe and confident. This often includes working directly with the school, creating visual schedules and predictability, teaching coping skills, and building positive associations with school.

Social skills development: Many children with autism want to connect with peers but don't know how. Amy uses play-based therapy and structured social skills training to teach things like initiating conversation, sharing and taking turns, reading social cues, managing conflicts, and understanding friendships. These skills are practiced in real-world settings, like playdates, school recess, or community activities, so they actually stick. You can read more about social skills development on the blog.

Communication challenges: Whether your child is non-verbal, has limited language, or struggles to express their needs, Amy uses evidence-based strategies to build communication skills. This might include picture exchange systems, sign language, verbal prompts and modelling, or augmentative communication tools. The goal is to help your child communicate effectively in whatever way works best for them.

Daily living skills: Things like getting dressed, brushing teeth, eating meals, or following bedtime routines can be major sources of stress for families. Amy breaks these tasks down into small, manageable steps and uses positive reinforcement to help your child master them. These skills are taught in your home, where your child will actually use them, making success more likely.

Academic and focus challenges: If your child struggles to pay attention, complete tasks, or succeed in the classroom, Amy works on building skills like sustained attention, following multi-step directions, transitioning between activities, and task completion. She also collaborates with teachers to create strategies that work in the school environment.

The key to all of this is personalization. Amy doesn't use cookie-cutter programs or one-size-fits-all approaches. Every plan is built around your child's specific challenges, strengths, and goals. What works for one child might not work for another, and Amy's experience helps her find the right strategies for your unique situation.

During the in-person observation phase of the Mini Minds process, Amy sees your child in action and identifies exactly what's happening and why. That real-world understanding is what makes her strategies so effective.

Ready to tackle the specific challenges your child is facing? Get in touch for a free consultation.

One of the things families love most about Mini Minds is the flexibility. There's no clinic to travel to, no waiting room, and no unfamiliar environment that might make your child anxious or uncomfortable.

Instead, Mini Minds brings therapy to where your child is most comfortable, whether that's at home, at school, at daycare, at camp, or even in community settings like a park or library.

Why does location matter?

Children with autism often learn best in familiar, comfortable environments. When therapy happens at home, your child can practice skills in the place where they'll actually use them. Things like getting dressed, following morning routines, managing mealtime behaviours, or playing with siblings. These are real-world skills practiced in real-world settings, which means they stick better.

When therapy happens at school, Amy can observe and support your child in the classroom environment, working on things like following instructions, staying focused, interacting with peers, and managing transitions between activities. This in-school support helps your child succeed academically and socially right where it matters most.

What about virtual/online therapy?

Amy also offers secure, online therapy for families who prefer remote sessions or live farther away from Toronto and the GTA. Virtual therapy has been surprisingly effective for many children, and it helps families who might have scheduling challenges or live outside the primary service area stay connected with consistent, high-quality support.

Online sessions work well for parent training and coaching, strategy discussions, check-ins and progress reviews, and even some direct work with children depending on their age and needs.

The benefits of this flexible approach:

Your child feels safe and comfortable, which helps them engage more fully in therapy. Skills are learned in the environments where they'll actually be used, leading to better generalization. You don't have to deal with the stress and logistics of travelling to appointments, especially if you have other children or a busy schedule. Therapy fits into your life, not the other way around.

This multi-setting, flexible approach is part of what makes Mini Minds different from traditional clinic-based services. You get the convenience and comfort of therapy that comes to you, combined with the expertise of a senior therapist with 15+ years of experience.

Whether you prefer in-home support, in-school support, online sessions, or a combination of all three, Amy will work with you to create a plan that fits your family's needs and your child's comfort level.

Want to discuss which setting would work best for your child? Reach out for your free consultation.

This is one of the most common questions parents ask, and it's an important one. Both ABA therapy (Applied Behaviour Analysis) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) are evidence-based approaches that help children with autism, but they work in different ways.

ABA therapy is a science-based method that helps children develop meaningful skills and behaviours through positive reinforcement and consistency. When your child does something positive, it gets noticed and rewarded, and over time, those positive behaviours become habits. ABA is particularly effective for building communication and social skills, helping with emotional regulation, teaching daily living skills like getting dressed or brushing teeth, and preparing children for academic success. Skills are broken down into manageable steps, making learning feel achievable and building confidence along the way.

CBT, on the other hand, is a goal-oriented therapy that teaches children to recognize and reframe unhelpful thinking patterns. For children with autism, CBT is adapted using visual supports, concrete examples, and structured routines to make abstract ideas understandable and engaging. CBT helps children improve their emotional awareness, reduce anxiety and frustration, develop better problem-solving skills and flexibility, and create healthier behavioural responses. Instead of just reacting impulsively, children learn to understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and actions.

The good news? You don't have to choose. At Mini Minds, we often integrate both approaches because they work beautifully together. ABA builds practical skills through positive reinforcement, while CBT emphasizes self-awareness and emotional understanding. Together, they create a holistic framework for learning and growth.

During your free consultation and in-person observation, Amy will get to know your child and determine which approach, or combination of approaches, will work best. Every child is unique, and the therapy plan is tailored specifically to your child's learning style, personality, and needs. Many children benefit from an integrated approach that draws on the strengths of both ABA and CBT, along with play-based therapy techniques.

Ready to learn more about which approach is right for your child? Book your free consultation with Amy today.

Every parent wants to know when they'll start seeing results, and that's completely understandable. The honest answer is that every child is different, and progress looks different for everyone. However, many families begin noticing small positive changes within the first few weeks of starting behavioural therapy.

These early wins might look like your child making better eye contact, using a new word or phrase, managing frustration a bit better, staying focused on a task longer, or showing more interest in playing with siblings or peers. These small shifts are meaningful because they're the foundation for bigger changes down the road.

Meaningful, lasting progress typically develops over several months of consistent therapy. Some skills, like communication or emotional regulation, take time to build and strengthen. Other skills, like following routines or completing daily tasks, might develop more quickly depending on your child's starting point. The key is consistency and a personalized approach that meets your child exactly where they are.

At Mini Minds, you'll never be left wondering about progress. Amy provides regular progress updates and detailed reports so you can see exactly how your child is developing. These updates are shared with you and anyone else in your child's support circle, including teachers and caregivers. If something isn't working as well as hoped, Amy adjusts strategies in real time based on what your child needs. This responsive, data-driven approach helps optimize your child's timeline for success.

Amy's 15+ years of experience also means she knows how to recognize progress, even when it's subtle, and how to keep building momentum. She's worked with hundreds of families and knows what realistic timelines look like for different goals and different children. That experience helps ensure your child is moving forward at the right pace, without rushing or holding back.

The bottom line? Progress takes time, but you won't be waiting in the dark. You'll see changes, receive regular updates, and have Amy's ongoing support every step of the way. Our approach is built for long-term success, not quick fixes.

Want to talk about realistic timelines for your child's specific goals? Reach out for a free consultation.

Absolutely! That’s a core part of how we operate and what makes us different. One of the things that sets Mini Minds apart is the commitment to working across all the environments where your child spends time, and school is a huge part of that.

Amy regularly meets with educators and school staff to ensure everyone is on the same page and working toward the same goals. This collaborative approach means your child gets consistent support whether they're at home, at school, or in the community. When strategies are reinforced across settings, skills generalize much more effectively.

Here's what school collaboration looks like at Mini Minds:

In-school observations: Amy conducts observations in your child's classroom to see firsthand how they interact with teachers, peers, and the school environment. This helps identify specific challenges and opportunities that might not be visible at home.

Strategy sessions with teachers: Amy works directly with teachers and educational staff to share practical strategies they can use in the classroom. These aren't complicated or time-consuming techniques. They're evidence-based, realistic approaches that fit into a teacher's existing routine and help your child succeed.

Ongoing communication: School collaboration doesn't stop after one meeting. Amy maintains regular communication with teachers to monitor progress, troubleshoot challenges, and adjust strategies as needed. This ensures your child continues to get the support they need as they grow and develop.

Advocacy: Amy acts as an advocate for your child, helping to ensure their needs are understood and met within the school system. If there are accommodations or supports your child needs, Amy can help communicate those needs clearly and effectively.

This multi-setting approach is part of Mini Minds' personalized support model. Whether your child needs help with focus and attention in the classroom, social skills during recess, emotional regulation during transitions, or following classroom routines and instructions, Amy works with the school to create solutions that actually work.

Parents often tell us how relieved they feel knowing their child has consistent support across home and school. It takes so much pressure off you as a parent when you know everyone is working together.

Ready to create a custom support plan for your child? Get in touch today.

The free consultation is designed to be as comfortable and pressure-free as possible. It's simply a conversation, a chance for you to share your child's story and for Amy to learn about what you're hoping to achieve.

Here's what to expect:

The consultation is completely free, with no cost and no obligation to move forward. It usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes, though it can be shorter or longer depending on what you need. You can do it over the phone, via video call, or in person, whatever feels most comfortable for you.

During the consultation, you'll have the opportunity to talk about your child. Share their strengths, what they love, what makes them unique, and also talk about the challenges you're facing. Maybe it's meltdowns, difficulty with communication, trouble at school, or social skills. Whatever it is, Amy wants to hear it.

Amy will listen carefully and ask some questions to better understand your child's needs and your family's goals. This isn't an interrogation. It's a supportive conversation where Amy is genuinely trying to understand how she can help.

You'll also have the chance to ask Amy anything you want to know. Questions about her experience and approach, what therapy will look like, timelines for progress, costs and logistics, or anything else on your mind. There are no silly questions, and Amy wants you to feel informed and confident.

Amy will explain how Mini Minds can help based on what you've shared, including what the next steps would look like if you decide to move forward. But again, there's absolutely no pressure to commit. This is about exploring whether Mini Minds is the right fit for your family.

What should you prepare?

Honestly, you don't need to prepare anything formal. There's no paperwork to fill out ahead of time, no reports you need to bring (though if you have a diagnosis or assessment, feel free to mention it), and no "right" way to tell your story.

Just come ready to talk about your child. Think about what's been worrying you, what you're hoping will improve, and what questions you have. That's all you need.

Many parents feel nervous before their first consultation, especially if they're newly navigating an autism diagnosis. That's completely normal. Amy has talked with hundreds of families in your exact position, and she knows how to make this conversation feel supportive, not stressful.

By the end of the consultation, you'll have a much clearer sense of what support is available, whether Mini Minds is a good fit, and what your next steps could be. And if you decide Mini Minds isn't right for you, that's okay too. The goal is to help you find the best path forward for your child, whatever that looks like.

Ready to take the first step? Book your free consultation with Amy today.

First, take a deep breath. If you're feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, scared, or even relieved to finally have answers, all of those feelings are completely normal.

You're not alone, and you don't have to figure this all out on your own.

Many parents describe the period right after their child's autism diagnosis as one of the most confusing and emotional times in their lives. There's so much information out there, so many therapy options, and so many people telling you what you should do. It's a lot.

Here's the truth: you don't need to have all the answers right now.

The best place to start is with a simple conversation. Book a free consultation with Amy, and use that time to talk about what you're experiencing, what you're worried about, and what you're hoping for your child. Amy has worked with hundreds of families in your exact situation, and she knows how to help you make sense of things.

During that consultation, Amy will help you understand your child's unique needs and what kind of support would be most helpful right now. Not six months from now, not in some abstract future, but right now. She'll create a clear path forward so you know what the next steps are and what to expect.

You don't have to become an expert in autism overnight. You don't have to read every book or research every therapy method. You just need someone experienced and compassionate to guide you, and that's exactly what Amy does.

What you can do right now:

Give yourself permission to feel whatever you're feeling. There's no "right" way to respond to your child's diagnosis.

Focus on one step at a time. You don't need a five-year plan today. You just need to take the first step.

Reach out for support. Whether that's a consultation with Mini Minds, connecting with other parents, or talking to your child's pediatrician, don't try to do this alone.

Remember that your child is still the same wonderful kid they were before the diagnosis. The diagnosis doesn't change who they are. It just helps you understand them better and get them the right support.

What happens after the consultation?

If you and Amy decide to work together, she'll conduct an in-person observation with your child to see them in action and understand their behaviours and routines. From there, Amy creates a fully personalized plan tailored to your child's needs, strengths, and goals. Then you move into ongoing support, with regular therapy sessions, progress updates, and Amy by your side every step of the way.

But you don't have to worry about any of that right now. Just start with the conversation. Let Amy help you take things one step at a time.

Many families tell us that just having that first consultation lifted a huge weight off their shoulders. Suddenly, they weren't alone anymore. They had a plan, a guide, and someone who genuinely cared about their child's success.

You can have that too.

Take the first step today. Book your free consultation and let Amy help you navigate this journey.

If you're researching autism therapy options in Toronto and the GTA, you've probably come across a lot of choices: large clinics, hospital programs, private practitioners, and everything in between. So what makes Mini Minds different?

You work directly with an experienced, senior-level therapist.

At Mini Minds, your child works one-on-one with Amy Simon, the founder and a senior behaviour therapist with more than 15 years of experience. You're not assigned to a junior therapist or rotating staff. You're getting direct access to someone with deep expertise, and that consistency makes a huge difference in outcomes and trust.

Every plan is 100% personalized.

Amy doesn't believe in cookie-cutter programs. Every child is unique, and every plan is built specifically around your child's strengths, challenges, personality, and goals. What works for one child might not work for another, and Amy takes the time to understand your child as an individual. Your plan is tailored to your family's needs and adjusted as your child grows and changes.

Therapy happens where your child needs it.

There's no clinic to travel to. Amy brings therapy to your home, your child's school, daycare, camp, or wherever your child spends time. This flexibility means your child learns skills in the environments where they'll actually use them, and you don't have to deal with the stress of appointments across town. Amy also offers secure online/virtual support for families who prefer remote sessions.

Mini Minds uses multiple evidence-based approaches.

Many providers specialize in just one therapy method, but Amy integrates ABA therapy, CBT, and play-based therapy techniques depending on what your child needs. This multi-modal approach gives your child access to the best strategies from multiple disciplines, creating a more holistic and effective support plan.

You're a partner, not just a recipient of services.

At Mini Minds, parents and caregivers are active partners in their child's progress. Amy provides ongoing coaching, training, and strategy sessions so you can reinforce skills at home. You're not left wondering what's happening or what you should be doing. You're empowered with knowledge and tools, and you're part of the team working toward your child's success.

Amy works with your child's school and educators.

Mini Minds doesn't operate in a silo. Amy regularly meets with teachers and school staff to ensure consistency and collaboration across all environments. She advocates for your child's needs and helps create solutions that work in the classroom, not just at home. This comprehensive approach sets your child up for success everywhere.

You get long-term support, not just a short-term program.

Some therapy providers work with families for a set period and then move on. At Mini Minds, Amy is committed to your child's long-term success. Families often work with Amy for years, and she provides ongoing check-ins, follow-ups, and support even after formal therapy ends. One family's testimonial mentions working with Amy for over five years, and that kind of lasting relationship is the norm, not the exception.

You start with a free consultation.

Amy offers a completely free, no-obligation consultation so you can meet her, share your child's story, and explore whether Mini Minds is the right fit. There's no pressure and no cost. It's just a conversation to help you make the best decision for your family. This transparency and respect for families is part of what makes the Mini Minds experience so positive.

The approach is compassionate and strengths-based.

Mini Minds doesn't focus on "fixing" your child or pushing them to meet neurotypical standards. Instead, Amy celebrates neurodiversity and works within a framework of inclusivity. The goal is to help your child find their place in their world, feel empowered and happy, and build on their existing strengths. Therapy is about supporting your child to thrive as themselves, not about trying to change who they are.

No waitlists, immediate access.

As a private practice, Mini Minds doesn't have the long waitlists that come with publicly funded programs. When you're ready to start, you can start. You don't have to wait months or even years to get your child the support they need.

These differences add up to a therapy experience that feels personal, supportive, and genuinely effective. Families choose Mini Minds because they want a therapist who knows their child, cares about their progress, and is personally invested in their success. That's exactly what you get.

Ready to experience the Mini Minds difference? Book your free consultation with Amy and see for yourself.

Choosing the right ABA therapist for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. It's not just about credentials or experience, though those do matter. It's about finding someone who genuinely understands your child, who will work with your family as partners, and who approaches therapy with compassion and expertise.

Here's what to look for when choosing an ABA therapist in Toronto:

Experience and credentials matter. Look for therapists who are trained or registered in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and have significant experience working with children on the autism spectrum. At Mini Minds, Amy is a senior behaviour therapist with more than 15 years of experience and is trained in ABA, CBT, and play-based therapy. That depth of experience means she's seen what works, what doesn't, and how to adapt strategies to each child's unique needs.

Personalization, not cookie-cutter programs. Many ABA programs use standardized protocols that don't account for your child's individual personality, strengths, or challenges. Ask potential therapists how they create treatment plans. At Mini Minds, every plan is built specifically around your child's needs, goals, and learning style. Nothing is one-size-fits-all. Amy takes the time to understand your child as an individual during the in-person observation phase, and that understanding shapes everything that follows.

Consistency and therapeutic relationship. Children with autism often thrive on routine and familiar relationships. If your child is working with rotating therapists or junior staff, they may struggle to build trust and engagement. At Mini Minds, your child works directly with Amy every session, not a team of therapists you barely know. That consistency builds trust, helps your child feel safe, and makes therapy more effective. Some families work with Amy for three, four, even five years, and that kind of long-term relationship is only possible because of this personal, boutique model.

Flexibility in where therapy happens. Does the therapist only work in a clinic, or will they come to your home, your child's school, or other settings where your child is comfortable? At Mini Minds, therapy happens wherever it makes the most sense for your child. In-home sessions help your child learn skills in the environment where they'll actually use them. In-school sessions allow Amy to work with teachers and support your child in the classroom. Online sessions offer flexibility for families with busy schedules or those living farther from Toronto. This multi-setting approach helps skills generalize and reduces stress for your family.

Family partnership and communication. The best ABA therapists don't just work with your child. They work with your whole family. Ask how the therapist involves parents and caregivers. At Mini Minds, Amy provides ongoing coaching, training sessions, and regular progress updates. You're not left in the dark wondering what's happening. You're an active partner, empowered with tools and strategies you can use at home. Therapy doesn't stop when the session ends. It's integrated into your daily life.

Collaboration with schools and educators. Does the therapist work with your child's school and teachers? At Mini Minds, Amy regularly meets with educators and school staff to ensure everyone is working toward the same goals. She conducts in-school observations, shares practical strategies teachers can use in the classroom, and advocates for your child's needs. This collaborative approach means your child gets consistent support across all environments.

Compassionate, strengths-based approach. ABA therapy should never feel punitive or focused solely on compliance. Look for therapists who celebrate your child's strengths, respect neurodiversity, and create a positive, encouraging environment. At Mini Minds, Amy's approach is rooted in compassion. The goal isn't to "fix" your child or force them to fit neurotypical standards. It's to help them thrive as themselves, building confidence, independence, and skills that make their life easier and more joyful.

Start with a free consultation. The best way to know if a therapist is the right fit is to talk with them. At Mini Minds, Amy offers a completely free, no-obligation consultation where you can share your child's story, ask questions, and get a feel for whether this partnership makes sense. There's no pressure, no sales pitch, just a supportive conversation about how Amy can help.

Choosing an ABA therapist is personal. Trust your instincts, ask lots of questions, and find someone who makes you and your child feel heard, understood, and supported.

Ready to talk? Book your free consultation with Amy and see if Mini Minds is the right fit for your family.

Mini Minds proudly serves families across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area, bringing personalized, compassionate behavioural therapy directly to where your child lives, learns, and grows.

Toronto areas we serve:

• Downtown Toronto

• East Toronto

• Scarborough

• East York

• North York

Greater Toronto Area (GTA) communities we serve:

• Markham

• Pickering

• Ajax

• Whitby

• And other surrounding GTA communities

Therapy comes to you. Unlike traditional clinic-based services, Mini Minds brings therapy to wherever your child is most comfortable. That might be your home, your child's school, their daycare, or even community settings like parks or libraries. This flexibility means your child learns skills in the environments where they'll actually use them, and you don't have to deal with the stress of travelling across the city for appointments.

In-home ABA therapy in Toronto and the GTA. Many families prefer in-home therapy because it allows their child to learn and practice skills in familiar, comfortable surroundings. Whether you're working on morning routines, mealtime behaviours, communication with siblings, or daily living skills, learning these skills at home makes them more likely to stick. Amy conducts sessions right in your living room, kitchen, or play area, wherever makes the most sense for the goals you're working on.

In-school therapy across Toronto and the GTA. Amy also provides in-school therapy, working directly with your child in their classroom, during recess, or in other school settings. This allows her to observe how your child interacts with teachers and peers, identify specific challenges in the school environment, and create strategies that help your child succeed academically and socially. Amy collaborates with teachers and educational staff to ensure everyone is working together toward your child's goals.

Virtual/online therapy for families across Ontario. For families who live farther away or prefer remote sessions, Mini Minds also offers secure, online therapy. Virtual sessions can be surprisingly effective for many children, and they help families who might have scheduling challenges or live outside the primary Toronto and GTA service area. Online therapy works well for parent training and coaching, strategy discussions and progress reviews, and direct work with children depending on their age and needs.

Why location flexibility matters. Children with autism often learn best when therapy happens in familiar environments where they feel safe and comfortable. When skills are taught in real-world settings, they're more likely to generalize across different situations. Learning how to manage frustration at home means your child is more likely to use those same skills at school. Practicing social skills at school means they're more likely to carry over to play dates and community activities.

This multi-setting approach is part of what makes Mini Minds different. You're not locked into weekly trips to a clinic across town. Therapy fits into your family's life in a way that actually works.

Service is personalized, no matter where you are. Whether you're in Scarborough, North York, Markham, or anywhere else in Toronto and the GTA, you'll receive the same high-quality, personalized service. Amy works directly with your family to understand your child's needs and creates a plan that fits your specific situation and goals.

Not sure if Mini Minds serves your area? The best way to find out is to simply reach out. Even if you're outside the primary service area, Amy may be able to offer virtual support or help connect you with resources. There's no cost to ask, and the free consultation is the perfect time to discuss logistics and what would work best for your family.

Wherever you are in Toronto or the GTA, Mini Minds is here to help. Reach out today to learn more about how therapy can come to you.

One of the things families love most about Mini Minds is that there's no clinic to travel to. Mini Minds brings therapy directly to your home, your child's school, or wherever your child is most comfortable.

Why in-home therapy makes a difference. For children with autism, familiar environments often create the best learning conditions. When therapy happens at home, your child can practice skills in the place where they'll actually use them. Whether it's working on morning routines, mealtime behaviours, communication with siblings, getting dressed independently, or managing transitions throughout the day, learning these skills at home means they're more likely to become part of your child's daily life.

In-home therapy also reduces stress for your entire family. You don't have to worry about travelling across Toronto in rush hour traffic, finding parking, or managing meltdowns in unfamiliar waiting rooms. Amy comes to you, which means therapy fits into your life instead of disrupting it.

What in-home ABA therapy looks like at Mini Minds. When Amy arrives at your home, she brings everything needed for the session. Therapy might happen in your living room, your child's bedroom, the kitchen, or even outside in the backyard, depending on what skills you're working on. Sessions are structured but also flexible, adapting to your child's energy, mood, and needs that day.

Amy uses evidence-based ABA strategies combined with play-based therapy techniques to keep sessions engaging and effective. Your child might be working on important developmental goals, but to them, it often feels like play. That's intentional. When learning is fun and natural, children engage more fully and progress more quickly.

In-home therapy across Toronto and the GTA. Mini Minds serves families throughout Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area, including Scarborough, North York, East Toronto, Markham, Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and surrounding communities. No matter where you live in the GTA, Amy can bring therapy to your home.

What if in-home therapy isn't the best fit? Some families prefer to combine in-home sessions with in-school support, especially if their child is struggling in the classroom. Amy regularly works in schools across Toronto and the GTA, conducting observations, delivering therapy during the school day, and collaborating with teachers. This multi-setting approach helps ensure skills generalize across environments.

Mini Minds also offers secure, online therapy for families who prefer virtual sessions or live farther away. Virtual therapy can be highly effective for parent training, strategy discussions, and even direct work with some children. It provides flexibility while maintaining the same high-quality, personalized support.

You choose what works best for your family. During the free consultation, you and Amy will discuss where therapy should take place based on your child's needs, your family's schedule, and your goals. There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Some families do all sessions at home. Some combine home and school. Some prefer virtual sessions. The plan is built around what works for you.

Parents are involved every step of the way. One of the biggest advantages of in-home therapy is that parents can see exactly what's happening. You're not dropping your child off at a clinic and wondering what goes on behind closed doors. You can observe sessions, ask questions in real-time, and learn strategies you can use throughout the day. Amy provides ongoing coaching and training so you feel empowered to support your child's progress even when therapy sessions aren't happening.

Skills learned at home stick. Research and real-world experience show that when children learn skills in the environments where they'll actually use them, those skills are more likely to generalize and become lasting habits. In-home therapy creates that natural connection between learning and daily life.

Ready to bring therapy home? Contact Mini Minds today to book your free consultation and learn more about how in-home ABA therapy can support your child's growth.

If you're searching for autism therapy in Toronto, you've probably heard about long waitlists. Public programs can have wait times of months or even years, and when your child needs support now, waiting that long feels impossible.

The good news? As a private practice, Mini Minds doesn't have those long waitlists. When you're ready to start, we can move quickly.

Here's what the timeline typically looks like:

Step 1: Free consultation (usually within a day or two). When you reach out to book your free consultation, Amy typically responds within 1-2 business days. The consultation itself can usually be scheduled within a week, depending on your availability and Amy's schedule. This is a no-pressure, no-obligation conversation where you share your child's story, ask questions, and explore whether Mini Minds is the right fit.

Step 2: In-person observation (scheduled based on your availability). If you and Amy decide to move forward together, the next step is an in-person observation. This is where Amy spends at least one hour with your child, either at home or at school, observing their behaviours and routines in real time. This observation is crucial for creating an accurate, personalized plan. The observation can usually be scheduled within just a few days of the consultation, depending on your family's schedule and Amy's availability.

Step 3: Personalized plan development (1-2 weeks). After the observation, Amy develops a fully customized plan tailored to your child's unique needs, strengths, and goals. This plan is shared and discussed with you, and your feedback is integral to finalizing it. This typically takes about 1-2 weeks, though it can be faster if needed.

Step 4: Ongoing therapy begins. Once the plan is in place, regular therapy sessions begin. The frequency and structure depend on what was discussed and agreed upon in the planning phase. Some families start with multiple sessions per week. Others begin with one or two sessions weekly. The schedule is flexible and built around what your child needs and what works for your family.

The full process from first contact to starting therapy usually takes 1-2 weeks - or less! That timeline can be faster or slower depending on your family's availability, scheduling needs, and the complexity of your child's situation. But the key point is this: you're not waiting months or years. You're getting access to a senior-level therapist with 15+ years of experience in a matter of weeks.

Why is there no long waitlist? Mini Minds is a boutique, private practice. Amy works directly with families rather than managing a large clinic with dozens of therapists and hundreds of clients. This personal model means Amy can take on new families when her schedule allows, without the bureaucratic delays and capacity issues that come with larger organizations or publicly funded programs.

What if we need support even sooner? If your family is in a particularly urgent situation, let Amy know during the consultation. She'll do her best to accommodate faster timelines when possible. Even before formal therapy begins, Amy often provides parents with initial strategies and guidance during the consultation and observation phases. You're not on your own while you wait.

No funding approvals or bureaucratic delays. Because Mini Minds is private pay, there are no forms to fill out, no government approvals to wait for, and no restrictions on the number of sessions or type of support your child can receive. You and Amy decide together what your child needs, and you move forward at a pace that makes sense for your family.

What happens if Amy's schedule is full? While Mini Minds does occasionally reach capacity, Amy is transparent about availability from the very first consultation. If there's a wait, you'll know upfront, and Amy can help connect you with other resources in the meantime. But in most cases, families can start within a few weeks.

The consultation is the first step. The fastest way to get started is to reach out and book that free consultation. There's no cost, no obligation, and no pressure. It's just a conversation. And from there, if it's the right fit, you can move forward quickly.

Many parents tell us they're relieved to finally have access to support without the endless waiting. After spending months or even years on public waitlists, being able to start therapy within weeks feels like a weight lifted off their shoulders.

Ready to get started? Contact Mini Minds today to book your free consultation and take the first step toward supporting your child's growth.

Cost is one of the first questions on most parents' minds when they're exploring therapy options, and that's completely understandable. You want to know what you're committing to financially before making such an important decision for your family.

At Mini Minds, we believe in complete transparency about pricing from the very beginning, so there are never any surprises.

How Mini Minds structures pricing. All services at Mini Minds are billed at Amy's hourly rate. This rate is discussed openly during your free consultation, before you make any commitment. There are no hidden fees, no surprise charges, and no pressure. You'll know exactly what to expect.

The hourly rate covers everything: one-on-one behavioural therapy sessions with your child, regular progress reports and updates, training and strategy sessions with parents and caregivers, meetings with educators and school staff, and ongoing advocacy and day-to-day support. You're not just paying for an hour of therapy. You're getting comprehensive support for your entire family.

Is ABA therapy covered by OHIP in Ontario? Unfortunately, OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) does not cover private ABA therapy services. OHIP covers some medically necessary services, but behavioural therapy provided by private practitioners like Mini Minds is not included in those covered services.

However, Ontario does have a publicly funded program called the Ontario Autism Program (OAP), which provides funding for autism services including behavioural therapy. Families accepted into the OAP can use their funding allocation to pay for services from approved providers. Mini Minds is a private practice and operates outside the OAP system, which means you would be paying privately rather than using OAP funding.

What about private insurance? Many families are able to get partial or full reimbursement for ABA therapy through their private health insurance plans. Coverage varies significantly depending on your specific plan and provider, but it's definitely worth checking. Some insurance plans cover behavioural therapy, psychological services, or autism-related supports under categories like "mental health services," "behavioural health," or "autism therapy."

Amy provides detailed receipts and documentation for all services, which most families successfully submit to their insurance providers for reimbursement. If you're not sure what your plan covers, contact your insurance company directly and ask specifically about coverage for ABA therapy, behavioural therapy, or autism services provided by a registered behaviour therapist or child and youth worker.

Can we use therapy costs for tax purposes? Yes, in many cases. Therapy services may be eligible for medical expense deductions on your income taxes. Keep all receipts and documentation from Mini Minds, and consult with your accountant or tax professional to understand what can be claimed. Amy can provide whatever documentation you need to support your tax filing.

Why choose private pay? While cost is obviously a consideration, there are significant advantages to private pay therapy. You get immediate access to a senior-level therapist with 15+ years of experience. There are no waitlists, which for public programs can be months or years long. There are no restrictions on the number of sessions, frequency of therapy, or type of support your child receives. You and Amy decide together what your child needs. There's no bureaucracy, no forms to fill out, and no approvals to wait for. You have complete flexibility in how therapy is delivered, where it takes place, and how often sessions happen.

For many families, the ability to start therapy now rather than waiting months or years on a public waitlist is worth the investment. The earlier children receive support, the better their outcomes tend to be.

We understand every family's situation is different. If cost is a concern, the free consultation is the perfect time to have an honest conversation about your budget and what options might work for your family. Amy understands that every family's financial circumstances are different, and she's happy to discuss scheduling, session frequency, and other factors that can affect overall costs.

Some families start with one session per week and increase frequency as their budget allows. Others combine in-person sessions with virtual check-ins, which can be more cost-effective. The plan is always tailored to what works for your family, both in terms of your child's needs and your financial reality.

The free consultation is always free. No matter what you decide about moving forward, the initial consultation with Amy costs nothing. It's a chance to meet, ask questions, discuss pricing in detail, and explore whether Mini Minds is the right fit for your family, all with zero financial commitment.

Want to discuss pricing and options? Book your free consultation today and get all the details specific to your family's situation.

When you're searching for autism therapy in Toronto, you'll find a range of options: large clinics with teams of therapists, hospital-based programs, and smaller private practices like Mini Minds. Understanding the differences can help you make the best choice for your child.

Large clinics typically operate on a team model. At most large autism therapy centers, you'll meet with a senior therapist or clinical director for an initial assessment. Based on that assessment, your child is then assigned to a junior therapist or behaviour technician who delivers most of the ongoing therapy. That therapist might be supervised by more senior staff, but the day-to-day work is done by someone with less experience.

Additionally, large clinics often have high staff turnover, which means your child might work with several different therapists over the course of their treatment. For children with autism, who often thrive on consistency and familiar relationships, this can be really challenging.

Mini Minds operates on a personal, boutique model. When you work with Mini Minds, your child works directly with Amy Simon, the founder and a senior behaviour therapist with more than 15 years of experience. From the free consultation all the way through ongoing therapy, you're working with Amy. She's the one who gets to know your child, builds a therapeutic relationship with them, creates their personalized plan, delivers their therapy sessions, and provides regular updates to you and your child's support circle.

This consistency makes a huge difference. Your child works with the same person every time, which helps them feel safe, build trust, and engage more fully. You're not wondering who's going to show up for today's session, or explaining your child's needs to a new therapist every few months.

Personalization versus standardized programs. Many large clinics use standardized ABA programs that follow set protocols. While these programs are evidence-based, they don't always account for each child's unique personality, learning style, or family circumstances. At Mini Minds, nothing is cookie-cutter. Every plan is built specifically around your child's individual needs, strengths, and goals. Amy takes the time during the in-person observation to truly understand your child, and that understanding shapes everything that follows.

Access to senior-level expertise. At large clinics, you might pay a premium for services, but most of the actual therapy is delivered by junior staff who are still building their skills. At Mini Minds, you're getting direct access to a senior-level professional with 15+ years of experience from day one. Amy has worked with hundreds of families and has deep expertise in ABA, CBT, and play-based therapy. That level of experience means she knows what works, what doesn't, and how to adapt strategies when something isn't clicking.

Flexibility in location and format. Many large clinics operate exclusively in a clinic setting, which means you have to travel to them for every appointment. At Mini Minds, therapy comes to you. Whether your child is most comfortable at home, at school, or in community settings, Amy brings therapy to where it makes the most sense. Mini Minds also offers online/virtual therapy for families who prefer remote sessions or live farther from Toronto. This flexibility reduces stress for your family and helps skills generalize across different environments.

Family partnership versus service delivery. At large clinics, parents are often kept at a distance during therapy sessions. You might receive periodic progress reports, but the actual therapy happens behind closed doors. At Mini Minds, parents are active partners in their child's progress. Amy provides ongoing coaching, training sessions, and strategy discussions so you can reinforce skills at home. You're not left in the dark. You're empowered with knowledge and tools, and you're part of the team working toward your child's success.

Long-term relationships versus short-term programs. Large clinics often work with families for set periods based on funding cycles or program structures. At Mini Minds, the relationship is long-term. One family's testimonial mentions working with Amy for over three years, and that kind of sustained support is common. Amy is committed to your child's success over the long haul, not just for a 12-week program or a single funding period.

Transparent pricing and no waitlists. Large clinics often have long waitlists and complex fee structures. At Mini Minds, pricing is transparent and discussed openly during the free consultation. As a private practice, there are no long waitlists. When you're ready to start, we can typically move forward within a few weeks.

Which model is right for your family? There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Some families prefer the structure and resources of a large clinic. Others value the personal, consistent, relationship-based approach that Mini Minds offers. The best way to decide is to explore your options, ask lots of questions, and trust your instincts about what feels right for your child.

Want to experience the Mini Minds difference? Book your free consultation with Amy and see for yourself what a personal, boutique approach to autism therapy looks like.

Yes, absolutely. ABA therapy is highly effective for addressing a wide range of specific challenges that children with autism experience, including emotional meltdowns, school refusal or difficulties in the classroom, communication struggles, social skills challenges, anxiety and rigid thinking, and daily living skills like eating, dressing, or personal hygiene.

At Mini Minds, Amy has more than 15 years of experience creating personalized strategies that help children overcome these challenges and thrive.

How ABA therapy addresses meltdowns and emotional regulation. Meltdowns are one of the most common concerns parents bring to therapy, and they're often the result of frustration, sensory overload, communication difficulties, or anxiety. ABA therapy helps by first identifying what triggers the meltdowns. Is it transitions between activities? Sensory input like loud noises or bright lights? Difficulty expressing needs? Once the trigger is understood, Amy creates strategies to prevent meltdowns before they happen and teach your child healthier ways to cope when big emotions arise.

This might include visual schedules to make transitions predictable, teaching calming strategies like deep breathing or using a quiet space, building communication skills so your child can express frustration before it escalates, or using sensory tools that help your child self-regulate.

At Mini Minds, Amy also uses CBT techniques alongside ABA to help children recognize their emotions, understand the connection between thoughts and feelings, and develop better emotional awareness. Over time, children learn to manage frustration and anxiety more effectively, leading to fewer and less intense meltdowns.

Helping children succeed at school. If your child is struggling in the classroom, whether it's with focus and attention, following instructions, completing tasks, social interactions with peers, or transitions between activities, ABA therapy can help. Amy works both at home and in-school to create strategies that support your child in the classroom environment.

During in-school observations, Amy sees firsthand how your child interacts with teachers, responds to classroom routines, and engages with peers. She then creates practical, evidence-based strategies that teachers can implement right away. This might include visual supports and structured routines, reinforcement systems that motivate your child, breaking tasks into manageable steps, or teaching self-regulation skills that help your child stay calm and focused.

Amy also collaborates directly with teachers and school staff, providing training and ongoing support, so everyone is working toward the same goals. When strategies are consistent between home and school, children progress faster.

Building communication skills. For children who are non-verbal, have limited language, or struggle to express their needs, ABA therapy uses evidence-based strategies to build communication skills. This might include picture exchange systems, sign language or other augmentative communication tools, verbal prompts and modelling, or expanding existing vocabulary and sentence structure.

The goal is to help your child communicate effectively in whatever way works best for them, reducing frustration and helping them participate more fully in daily life.

Developing social skills and friendships. Many children with autism want to connect with peers but don't know how. ABA therapy teaches social skills in a structured, supportive way, using play-based therapy and real-world practice. Amy works on skills like initiating conversation and play, sharing and taking turns, reading social cues and body language, managing conflicts and disagreements, and understanding friendships and social rules.

These skills are practiced in natural settings, like play dates, school recess, or community activities, so they actually stick and generalize across different situations.

Addressing anxiety and rigid thinking. Children with autism often experience anxiety about changes in routine, new situations, or uncertainty. They may also engage in rigid thinking, struggling to see alternative perspectives or adapt when plans change. CBT techniques are particularly effective for these challenges. Amy helps children recognize anxious or rigid thoughts, practice flexible thinking and problem-solving, develop coping strategies for managing uncertainty, and build confidence in handling change.

These skills help children feel more in control, reduce anxiety, and improve their ability to navigate the unexpected parts of life.

Teaching daily living skills and independence. If your child struggles with practical life skills like getting dressed, brushing teeth, eating meals, using the bathroom independently, or following bedtime routines, ABA therapy breaks these tasks down into small, manageable steps and uses positive reinforcement to build mastery.

Because Mini Minds offers in-home therapy, Amy teaches these skills right where your child will use them, in your bathroom, bedroom, or kitchen. This makes learning more relevant and increases the likelihood that skills will stick.

The key is personalization. Every child's challenges are different, and Amy doesn't use one-size-fits-all approaches. During the in-person observation, Amy sees your child in action and identifies exactly what's happening and why. That real-world understanding allows her to create strategies that are specifically tailored to your child's needs, not just generic advice from a textbook.

Progress takes time, but you'll see changes. Many families start noticing small improvements within the first few weeks: better emotional regulation, more effective communication, improved focus, or more independence in daily tasks. Meaningful, lasting progress develops over months of consistent therapy, with regular adjustments based on your child's evolving needs.

Ready to tackle your child's specific challenges? Contact Mini Minds today to book your free consultation and learn how ABA therapy can help your child thrive.