In 2025, speech therapy costs in Canada range from $140–$180 per hour with an SLP, and $100–$130 with a CDA. Assessments cost $150–$200. Ontario and BC are the most expensive, while eastern provinces offer lower rates. Teletherapy is widely used and often cheaper by 10–15%.
Did you know that 1 in 10 Canadians experience a speech or communication disorder? These challenges affect individuals across all age groups—from preschoolers to seniors. With growing awareness and demand, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are more essential than ever.
In provinces like New Brunswick, recent data shows that 17.9% of children entering kindergarten exhibit speech or language difficulties. This underscores the importance of early intervention and access to qualified professionals.
Speech therapy, or speech-language pathology, addresses a wide range of communication challenges, including speech delays, articulation issues, stuttering, and language comprehension. Therapy is tailored to the individual's age and specific needs.
Children: Therapy often involves play-based activities, storytelling, and interactive exercises to enhance speech and language skills.
Adults: Therapy may focus on regaining communication abilities after a stroke or injury, improving social communication, or addressing voice disorders.
Therapists employ various techniques, such as cognitive-communication exercises, breathing strategies, and oral muscle strengthening, to support clients' goals.
What Are Speech Disorders?
Speech disorders encompass a variety of conditions that affect an individual's ability to communicate effectively. Common disorders include:
Stuttering: Disruptions in the flow of speech, such as repetitions or prolongations.
Apraxia: A motor speech disorder where the brain struggles to coordinate the muscle movements necessary for speech.
Dysarthria: Weakness or paralysis of the speech muscles, often resulting in slurred or slow speech.
These conditions can impact self-esteem, academic and professional performance, and social interactions.
Speech Therapy Cost Factors
Several factors influence the cost of speech therapy in Canada:
Location: Urban centers tend to have higher rates due to increased demand and cost of living.
Therapist Qualifications: Sessions with certified SLPs may cost more than those with communicative disorders assistants (CDAs).
Session Length and Frequency: Longer or more frequent sessions will increase overall costs.
Type of Service: Specialized assessments or therapy for complex disorders may incur higher fees.
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How Much Does Speech Therapy Cost in Canada? (2025)
Speech therapy costs in Canada vary based on province, type of provider (Speech-Language Pathologist vs Communicative Disorders Assistant), and service format (in-person vs teletherapy).
So at Insurdinary, we set up a guide to help you know what to expect when you are on the lookout for help with a speech disorder, either for yourself or for a loved one. Below is a provincial and territorial cost comparison as of 2025:
Province/Territory
Assessment (1 hr)
Therapy (SLP, 1 hr)
Therapy (CDA, 1 hr)
Notes
Ontario
$190 – $220
$165 – $185
$130
Highest availability of CDAs
Quebec
$160 – $190
$120 – $160
Limited
Often bilingual services
British Columbia
$180 – $210
$160 – $180
$130 – $150
High urban demand
Alberta
$170 – $200
$150 – $180
$120 – $140
Telehealth widely used
Manitoba
$150 – $180
$130 – $160
$110 – $130
Public services have waitlists
Saskatchewan
$150 – $180
$130 – $160
$100 – $120
Rural access can be limited
Nova Scotia
$140 – $170
$120 – $150
$100 – $110
Public early intervention strong
New Brunswick
$140 – $170
$120 – $150
$100 – $110
Strong school-based services
Newfoundland & Labrador
$130 – $160
$115 – $140
$95 – $110
Rural demand rising
Prince Edward Island
$130 – $150
$110 – $130
$90 – $100
Smaller clinic network
Yukon
$130 – $160
$110 – $140
$90 – $110
Travel subsidies may apply
Northwest Territories
$130 – $160
$110 – $140
$90 – $110
Limited in-person services
Nunavut
$130 – $160
$110 – $140
$90 – $110
Teletherapy often required
National Averages (2025)
Assessment (1 hour): $150 – $200
SLP Therapy (1 hour): $140 – $180
CDA Therapy (1 hour): $100 – $130
Ontario
Ontario has some of the highest rates in the country, but also the greatest availability of communicative disorders assistants (CDAs), which can help reduce costs. Urban demand in cities like Toronto also drives prices higher.
Most clinics in Ontario charge additional fees for other services, such as consultations, skill assessments, routine therapy, report writing and travel time. OHIP does not cover any of the sessions or additional costs surrounding speech therapy.
Quebec
Services in Quebec are often bilingual and relatively more affordable. The presence of publicly funded programs helps alleviate some costs, though access to CDAs is limited.
Usually, no further fees are added outside of the session. The Quebec provincial plan does not cover speech therapy sessions.
British Columbia
BC's urban centers have high demand, reflected in the above-average costs. Telehealth is widely used to bridge access gaps, especially in remote communities.
BC has services that are not included in the session price, which include assessment, travel and report writing. Speech therapy is not covered under the provincial health plan of BC. However, children under 5 years old with a speech disorder can attend their sessions for free.
Alberta
Teletherapy is prevalent in Alberta, making services more accessible even in rural areas. Private therapy remains moderately priced compared to national averages.
Most clinics in Alberta will charge extra for travel fees, assessment and report writing. The Alberta provincial plan does not cover speech therapy sessions. However, most insurance plans do partially cover the cost of speech therapy.
Manitoba
Manitoba offers competitive rates, with many clients relying on public programs. Waitlists for public services are common, driving some toward private options.
Most clinics have no additional travel fees. There are cancellation policies, but are often not covered by the provincial plan. Manitoba does cover speech therapy, ranging from all ages, provided that you are a resident of Manitoba with a registered health card.
Saskatchewan
Rural accessibility challenges impact service availability. Costs remain moderate, and CDAs provide a more affordable route for families in need.
Services are included in the session cost, but 50% cancellation fees may apply. The provincial health plan usually covers sessions for young children, but most speech therapy sessions are not covered by the provincial plan.
Nova Scotia
Known for strong early intervention programs, Nova Scotia offers lower private rates. Waitlists may exist in public systems, especially in smaller towns.
Most clinics require a 50% payment of the session if the cancellation policy is not met. The Nova Scotia provincial plan does not cover speech therapy sessions.
New Brunswick
School-based therapy is robust, and costs for private services are on par with the national average. Public access helps meet most early childhood needs.
Additional charges are made for full-hour therapy sessions, initial assessments and assessment reports. The New Brunswick provincial plan does cover speech therapy sessions when serviced by a hospital and recommended by a physician.
Newfoundland & Labrador
Private services are increasing in demand as public programs struggle to meet rural needs. Rates remain among the lowest in the country.
Most clinics do not charge for additional services. Consultations and assessments are often free. Speech therapy is private. However, those under 19 may qualify for coverage, depending on parental income.
Prince Edward Island
A smaller network of clinics means fewer choices, but costs are generally low. Residents may need to travel to Charlottetown for consistent access.
Services are included in the session cost, but 50% cancellation fees may apply. PEI offers free speech therapy only for patients that are in pre-school.
Yukon
Travel subsidies may be available for residents needing to access care from larger centers. Teletherapy fills many of the gaps left by limited in-person services.
Northwest Territories
Access remains limited due to geographic challenges, but costs are consistent with national standards. Teletherapy is key to service delivery.
Nunavut
Therapy is primarily conducted via telehealth due to a lack of on-site providers. Government and community programs support access and affordability.
SLPs are licensed clinicians who assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, and communication disorders. CDAs (Communicative Disorders Assistants) provide therapy under the supervision of an SLP and are typically more affordable.
Rates may be slightly lower for 30- or 45-minute sessions. Virtual sessions often offer a 10–15% discount over in-person visits. Prices may increase for specialized therapy areas (e.g., feeding disorders, cognitive-communication therapy post-stroke). Many clinics offer package deals or sliding scale fees based on income.
Is Speech Therapy Covered by Government Healthcare Like OHIP?
In most provinces, public health insurance plans like OHIP do not cover private speech therapy services. However, there are exceptions:
Public Programs: Some hospitals, schools, and community health centers offer speech therapy at no cost, primarily for children.
Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB): May cover therapy for work-related injuries upon referral.
Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP): As of 2025, covers up to $750 per year for services from licensed SLPs and audiologists.
Note: Coverage varies by province and individual circumstances.
Private Insurance Coverage
Many Canadians rely on private health insurance to offset speech therapy costs. Coverage details:
Student Plans: Typically cover $40–$50 per session, up to $300 annually.
Employer-Sponsored Plans: Coverage varies; some plans reimburse a percentage per session or up to a yearly maximum.
Individual Plans: Options are available for self-employed individuals or those without employer coverage.
Always review your policy details or consult with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
Travel and Accessibility Considerations
Teletherapy: Many providers now offer virtual speech therapy via secure video platforms. Teletherapy has become widely accepted, especially in rural and underserved regions where in-person access may be limited.
In-home Services: Some therapists offer home visits, especially for clients with mobility issues or developmental challenges. While convenient, these services may come at a premium, with travel fees often added to the base session rate.
Community Clinics and University Programs: Many universities with speech-language pathology programs offer low-cost or sliding scale services through training clinics. These are supervised by certified SLPs and provide an affordable option for quality care.
How to Choose the Right Speech Therapist
When looking for a qualified speech therapist, consider the following:
Credentials: Look for professionals registered with provincial associations, such as CASLPO (Ontario), ACSLPA (Alberta) and SAC (Speech-Language & Audiology Canada – national body).
Experience: Seek a therapist with experience relevant to your specific condition—be it childhood language delays, adult aphasia, or voice disorders.
Referrals: Your family doctor, pediatrician, or school resource team can often refer you to local providers.
Online Directories: Such as Speech-Language & Audiology Canada and College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario
Tips for Reducing Costs
Here are practical ways to make speech therapy more affordable:
Use Insurance Wisely: Maximize your benefits by spacing out sessions or combining with home practice.
Group Sessions: Some therapists offer small group therapy, which may reduce costs while building social communication skills.
Government Subsidies: Explore provincial programs like Ontario’s Preschool Speech and Language Program or BC’s At Home Program.
Charitable Support: Organizations like Easter Seals or The War Amps may offer assistance based on your needs.
Home Practice: Consistent at-home exercises between sessions can reduce the number of appointments needed.
FAQs About Speech Therapy in Canada
Here are 5 highly searched FAQs related speech therapy in Canada:
No referral is required to see a speech-language pathologist privately. However, some public programs or insurance providers may require a doctor’s note for reimbursement.
OHIP generally does not cover private speech therapy, though some hospital-based or school-based services are publicly funded for eligible individuals.
Yes, virtual sessions have proven to be highly effective, especially for individuals with mild to moderate issues. Many providers offer flexible teletherapy services in 2025.
Speech therapy can be a vital investment in communication, confidence, and overall well-being—whether for a child learning to speak clearly or an adult recovering from a neurological event.
While costs can be a concern, a growing number of supports—from public programs to teletherapy and insurance coverage—are making this essential service more accessible than ever in 2025.
If you're unsure where to start, speak with your family doctor or contact a local speech-language pathology association. Early intervention can make all the difference.
Important Notice:
All interest rates, fees, and other numerical figures displayed on our website are subject to change without prior notice. To ensure you have the most current information and/or promotion, please visit the provider's official website.
