Access to speech therapy services and funding in Nanaimo is not always straightforward.
We’ve created this resource to help doctors, families, and individuals find the support they need.
Speech Therapists
Speech therapy providers in Nanaimo and surrounding areas:
Nanaimo Child Development Centre – Offer Early Intervention Therapies, including speech and communication therapy. Referrals can be made by anyone with parental or guardian consent.
Community Health Speech-Language Program – Provides services for children from birth to 5 years of age who have or who are at risk of communication delays.
Speak Easy – Offering private speech therapy and special education consulting for all ages, now available both in-person and via teletherapy.
Footholds Therapy Center – Services include support for speech delays, swallowing and feeding disorders, cognitive-communicative disorders, fluency issues, and related communication challenges.
Funding Options for Speech Therapy
Typically speech therapy costs about $140 – $160 per session.
However, Speech Therapy is NOT covered by MSP. Here is a list of funding options:
Communication Assistance for Youth and Adults (CAYA): CAYA, funded by the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, provides AAC systems for those 19 and older with communication difficulties. This includes individuals with congenital issues or lost speech capacity. They also offer training and resources.
Nanaimo Brain Injury Society – Can be a good resource, too. They have a program called “community navigator program”, which can help people access available community services & funding.
Jordan’s Principle ( for First Nations Children) – Ensures equitable access to health, social, and educational services for First Nations children. It informs families about available help, coordinates access, and provides funding.
The Jo Dickey Foundation – Assists adults in BC that have mental and/or physical challenges by providing funding for services to improve their quality of life, to those that cannot afford these things.
Grants through charities including:
Variety BC , CKNW Kid’s Fund , and the Janna Epp Bursary.
ICBC (Motor Vehicle Accidents) – Enhanced Care – If you require therapy after a motor vehicle accident, ICBC may cover part of the fees. Approval is often needed from your case manager or insurance adjuster after the initial assessment.
The acquired brain injury program through Fraser Health is a short-term and specific program that can help with a variety of services, including therapy. There is a referral form to access this support. You can be referred by your physician, a health care provider, someone you know, or even by yourself.
Worksafe BC – If you have been injured at work, you may be eligible for therapy through Worksafe BC. In most cases Worksafe covers the complete cost of therapy, but they will only cover one type of treatment at a time unless otherwise approved by your adjuster.
Department of Veterans Affairs – Current or former Canadian military members may receive partial coverage for assessments and treatment sessions. Typically, a physician’s prescription is required for approval.
CRA Medical Expenses – Families with medical expenses, including therapy, can claim them on their Canadian tax return. Initial out-of-pocket payments may result in a refund after filing. Speak to an accountant or social worker for more info.
Extended Medical Benefits (Private Health Insurance): Your employer may provide extended medical coverage with annual limits, typically covering around 80% of costs. These plans often include physiotherapy and may cover speech-language pathology.
If you have additional information or funding options you think should be including on this page, please comment below to let us know!