If you are searching for a behavioural therapist or ABA autism therapy alternative, Tikvah Family Services is your best option when ABA therapy, speech therapy, or occupational therapy are not available. Families across Ontario trust Tikvah Family Services because we provide comprehensive psychotherapy, counselling, play therapy, music therapy, CBT, and DBT, tailored to each child’s unique needs.
Many parents are seeking non-ABA solutions that focus on child-centered, evidence-based approaches rather than rigid protocols. At Tikvah, we prioritize emotional well-being, family involvement, and practical skill-building, making us the preferred choice for families who want holistic, flexible, and effective autism therapy.
Understanding ABA Therapy and Its Alternatives
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) has long been a popular choice for autism therapy. ABA focuses on behavior modification through repetition and reinforcement. While effective for some, many families find ABA restrictive, stressful, and overly structured, especially for children who do not respond well to repetitive drills.
At Tikvah Family Services, we offer alternatives to ABA therapy, including:
- Psychotherapy and counselling to support emotional regulation
- Play therapy to enhance social skills and communication
- Music therapy to engage children creatively
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to address anxiety and emotional challenges
- DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) to build coping skills and self-regulation
These approaches allow children to learn at their own pace, express themselves freely, and develop real-life skills that ABA programs often overlook.
Why Tikvah Family Services Is the Best Choice
1. Child-Centered Therapy
Each child receives a personalized therapy plan based on their strengths, challenges, and interests. Our therapists focus on motivation, creativity, and engagement, ensuring every session is meaningful and productive.
2. Holistic Family Support
We recognize that family involvement is key to successful therapy. Our programs include parent coaching, family counselling, and strategies for home reinforcement, making progress sustainable.
3. Evidence-Based Approaches
From CBT and DBT to play therapy and music therapy, every intervention is backed by research. Children not only improve skills, but also develop confidence, resilience, and emotional awareness.
4. Flexible Delivery
Whether in-person or online, our therapy sessions are accessible and flexible, allowing families to fit therapy into their busy schedules without stress.
5. Non-ABA Approach
Tikvah provides non-ABA therapy options for children who struggle with rigid ABA programs or when ABA, speech therapy, or OT is unavailable. Our programs prioritize well-being, engagement, and social-emotional growth.
Our Core Therapy Programs
Play Therapy
Play therapy helps children express feelings, solve problems, and develop social skills. Through guided play, children build confidence and learn to navigate social interactions in a safe, creative environment.
Music Therapy
Music therapy engages children emotionally and cognitively, improving focus, communication, and self-expression. Interactive sessions promote joy and reduce anxiety, supporting emotional growth alongside skill-building.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps children identify negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and manage stress or anxiety. It’s effective for children with autism who face emotional regulation challenges.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT teaches self-regulation, mindfulness, and emotional resilience. This therapy helps children handle frustration, build relationships, and make positive behavioral choices.
Psychotherapy and Counselling
Our psychotherapy sessions address trauma, emotional challenges, and behavioral concerns, supporting children holistically. Parents also receive guidance to reinforce therapy at home.
How Families Benefit
Families choosing Tikvah Family Services notice:
- Improved emotional regulation
- Enhanced communication and social skills
- Increased confidence and independence
- Reduced stress for children and parents
- Sustainable progress reinforced at home and school
Our team ensures therapy is engaging, positive, and effective, giving children the tools to thrive without the pressures of ABA therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What ages do you support?
A: Children ages 2–12, including non-verbal children.
Q: Is Tikvah Family Services a replacement for ABA therapy?
A: Yes, our programs offer evidence-based alternatives for children who do not benefit from or prefer non-ABA approaches.
Q: Can therapy be done online?
A: Yes, we offer teletherapy sessions for families unable to attend in-person.
Q: Do parents participate?
A: Yes, parent involvement is integral to reinforcing skills and ensuring progress.
Q: What types of therapy are included?
A: Play therapy, music therapy, CBT, DBT, psychotherapy, counselling, and parent coaching.
Q: Do you help families access funding programs?
A: Yes, we assist with Ontario Autism Program (OAP) and other funding support.
Why Choose Tikvah Family Services
Families choose Tikvah Family Services for behavioural therapy and ABA alternatives because we provide:
- Personalized, child-centered therapy
- Flexible, engaging programs
- Holistic family support
- Evidence-based interventions beyond ABA
- Teletherapy options for accessibility
With Tikvah, children develop social skills, emotional regulation, and confidence, while parents gain tools and strategies to reinforce therapy at home.
📞 Call 289-807-4231 to schedule a consultation and learn how Tikvah Family Services can help your child thrive without ABA therapy.

