ACT offers a number of group programs in Ottawa throughout the year for children and teens. Groups focus on functional routines, mental health, making friends and more.
All group programs at ACT are eligible for expense under the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) Core Clinical Services. Groups may also be eligible for third-party insurance coverage.
Please note this program is only available in English.
Ages: Students performing at approximately grade 1 to 5 level
Dates: September 2026 (specific date to be determined)
Time: Mondays and Wednesdays, 1 to 4 PM, participation in both sessions is required.
Location: Colonnade & Kanata
Cost:
3-hour session – 12 weeks, $204.00/session
2-hour session – 12 weeks, $139.00/session
1 hour session – 12 weeks, $74.00/session
Total program cost ranges from $1770-$4890
In the Small Group Academic Program, personalized learning meets peer connection. This group is designed to strengthen core skills in reading, math and spelling/writing, as well as help children master the art of group participation and social engagement. In this supportive environment, students build the academic stamina and social confidence necessary to thrive in the classroom and beyond. This group is for students who could use some extra support in reaching academic goals and in finding their confidence within the classroom as well as with peers!
Each session is 3 hours, divided into three 1-hour blocks twice weekly: Reading Mastery, Connecting Math Concepts, and Spelling Mastery OR Expressive Writing. Families may register for the whole session or select the block(s) in which their child needs the most support.
The program runs in 12-week terms, with progress reports issued every 6 and 12 weeks.
What to Expect:
Ages: 7 to 9
Dates: May 7 to June 11, 2026
Time: Thursdays, 5 to 6:30 PM
Location: Colonnade
Cost: $900
The objective of this group is to help children build upon emotional awareness and self-regulation skills through a combination of psychoeducation discussions, sensory exploration, mindfulness and creative activities.
Throughout the 6-week program, each session introduces a theme related to understanding emotions, calming the body and developing a personalized coping toolkit.
Please note this program is only available in English.
Ages: 9 to 12
Dates: April 21 to June 23, 2026
Time: Tuesdays, 5 to 6 PM
Location: Colonnade
Cost: $1000
The Children’s Friendship Group is a 10-week program in support of neurodiverse elementary school-aged children who struggle to make and maintain friends.
Please note this program is only available in English.
Ages: 13 to 17
Time: Wednesdays, 5:00 to 6:30 PM
Dates: April 22 to June 10, 2026
Location: Colonnade clinic (Nepean)
Cost: $465 for the 8-week program.
This 8-week narrative therapy group offers a supportive and affirming space for 2SLGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent youth to explore identity, community and mental well-being. Rooted in a clinical Narrative Therapy approach, this group helps teens examine the stories they hold about themselves, stories shaped by lived experience, relationships and the systems they navigate.
By connecting personal narratives with 2SLGBTQIA+ history and understanding how intersecting identities (such as neurodiversity) shape experience, participants can begin to reclaim their own story and develop a stronger sense of belonging, empowerment and self-understanding.
What to Expect:
Ages: 13 to 17
Dates: April 23 to June 25, 2026
Time: Thursdays, 5 to 6 PM
Location: Colonnade
Cost: $700
Calling all teens! Our 10-week teen group is a chance to make friends and take part in activities (suggested by youth) in a warm and welcoming space!
Please note this program is only available in English.
Having trouble completing registration? Email intake@actlearningcentre.ca or call 343-887-2287.
