Short-Term Support to Address Urgent Behavioral Needs
The OAP Urgent Response Service, Is not a crisis service. It is a time-limited, rapid response service for a period of up to 12 weeks, which is available for children and youth with Autism who are registered with the Ontario Autism Program (OAP).
The service is intended to address a specific behaviour in order to prevent further escalation of risk of harm to self, others and/or property.
To be eligible for OAP Urgent Response Services, you/your child must be:
High-risk factors include:
The OAP Urgent Response Service is not a crisis service.
If you feel that you need immediate emergency or crisis services, please call 911, a crisis helpline, or visit your closest emergency room.
OAP urgent response services do not:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ontario Autism Program Urgent Response Service
The OAP Urgent Response Service provides time-limited, rapid response services for children and youth with autism who are experiencing urgent needs, such as escalating behaviors, emotional distress, or safety concerns.
Children and youth who:
✅ Are registered in the Ontario Autism Program (OAP)
✅ Are experiencing an urgent need or escalation of behaviour, affecting their well-being or safety
✅ Require immediate support to stabilize a situation
Urgent needs may include:
- Sudden aggressive or self-injurious behaviors
- Increased emotional distress impacting daily life or functioning
- New or worsening behaviors impacting the child/youth or others and/or property
- Safety concerns related to autism-related challenges
Once referred, families typically receive an initial contact within 2 business days, to begin the intake process. By completing the intake process, you will find out if the OAP urgent response service is appropriate to best support your child/youth’s needs or whether other services or supports would be more appropriate.
- Short-term interdisciplinary consultation with the child/youth’s intervention team, family/caregiver and/or educator (s)
- Personalized strategies to address the the identified high-risk factor
- Family/Caregiver coaching and training on behavior management
- Crisis planning and prevention strategies
- Coordination with other autism services and resources
No, the OAP Urgent Response Service provides short-term intervention, typically lasting up to 12 weeks, to help stabilize urgent situations. Families are then connected to ongoing supports if needed.
No, families can self-refer by contacting Inspire Centre directly. Service providers and community agencies can also submit referrals on behalf of a child.
After the identified concern is addressed, families/caregivers receive a transition plan and connections/referrals to longer-term autism services, ensuring continued support.
No, the OAP Urgent Response Service is fully funded by the Ontario government and is available at no cost to families.
Families can contact Inspire Centre directly to speak with a team member and begin the referral process. Inquiries and referrals can also be made through Inspire Centre’s website.
