Introduction
Therapy for autism is essential, but in Hong Kong, it can be costly. Many families want to support their child’s development, but private therapy bills add up fast. Between assessments, one-on-one sessions, and school support, it can feel overwhelming.
This guide is here to help. We’ll explore real, budget-friendly ways to find effective therapy for autism in Hong Kong. You’ll learn about public services, NGOs, financial help, and tips to save money.
Let’s dive in and find smart ways to support your child—without breaking the bank.
Understanding the Cost of Autism Therapy in Hong Kong
Why Autism Therapy Can Be Expensive
Overview of typical private therapy rates (ABA, OT, speech)
Private therapy in Hong Kong isn’t cheap. ABA sessions often cost HK$800–HK$1,200 per hour. OT and speech therapy sessions range from HK$600–HK$1,000.
Frequency of sessions and long-term nature of treatment
Most children need weekly or even daily sessions. Therapy also continues for years. This adds up over time.
Added costs (e.g., assessments, shadow teachers, transport)
Parents also pay for initial assessments, progress reports, shadow teachers, and transport to and from therapy centers.
The Financial Burden on Families
Middle-income families often ineligible for subsidies
Many families earn just enough to be ineligible for aid—but not enough to afford private therapy.
Limited insurance coverage for autism-related services
Most insurance plans in Hong Kong don’t cover ABA. Some may partially cover speech or OT, but not consistently.
Balancing quality care with household budgets
Parents must decide what’s most important—while trying to avoid financial stress.
Free and Low-Cost Autism Therapy Services in Hong Kong
Government-Funded Options
Child Assessment Centres (Hospital Authority)
These public centers provide free assessments and referrals for children suspected of autism.
Special Child Care Centres (Social Welfare Department)
Offer therapy, education, and care for young children with special needs. These are government-subsidized.
Public hospitals and allied health services
Some public hospitals offer free or low-cost speech and occupational therapy. Referrals are needed.
NGO and Charity-Based Services
Heep Hong Society
One of the largest NGOs for child development. Offers sliding scale fees and public funding support.
Caritas
Provides affordable speech and OT services for families in need.
SAHK
Specializes in training and inclusive education for children with autism. Offers therapy and support programs.
Watchdog, TWGHs, TREATS
These NGOs run part-time therapy sessions, playgroups, and workshops.
Special Schools and Integrated Programs
Schools under Education Bureau with SEN resources
Many public and aided schools have speech and OT support built into the school day.
NGOs offering therapy within kindergartens
Some NGOs run programs directly inside kindergartens, providing therapy during school hours.
Mainstream schools with school-based therapy
For children with milder needs, some local schools offer limited therapy on campus.
Tips for Making Private Therapy More Affordable
Start with an Accurate Diagnosis
Get referred to a public assessment center to avoid private diagnosis fees
Public assessments are free and open the door to government-funded services.
Use school or GP recommendations to support funding requests
Schools and doctors can help build a case for therapy support or funding aid.
Use a Blended Therapy Approach
Combine public therapy with occasional private booster sessions
Use public services for regular support, and private sessions only for specific issues.
Use home-based activities to reinforce skills between sessions
Ask your therapist for home tasks. Practice daily routines, play skills, and speech at home.
Focus private sessions on most urgent skill areas
Instead of spreading thin, focus on one area—like communication or motor skills.
Ask About Sliding Scale Fees or Discounts
Many private clinics offer discounted rates for families in need
It’s okay to ask about financial support. Many centers don’t advertise it, but they do help.
Look for sibling discounts or off-peak pricing
Some clinics offer better rates during non-peak hours or if more than one child attends.
Consider package deals for long-term plans
Monthly or term-based packages often cost less per session.
Consider Group Therapy Options
Social skills or speech groups often cost less per session
Groups are effective, especially for social development, and cheaper than 1:1 sessions.
Group OT or play sessions can still be very effective
Kids learn by watching others too—group settings can help build confidence.
Check if group programs suit your child’s learning style
Not all children thrive in groups, but it’s worth trying one trial class.
Financial Assistance for Autism Therapy in Hong Kong
Government Subsidies
Disability Allowance (Social Welfare Department)
Families can apply if their child meets the disability criteria. Monthly payments help offset costs.
Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA)
For low-income families, CSSA provides financial support that can cover therapy needs.
Special education grants and tax deductions
Tax deductions are available for special education expenses. Schools may also help apply for SEN grants.
NGO and Community Funding Support
Heep Hong, Caritas, and Rainbow Project funding programs
Each NGO has its own financial aid programs. Ask during your inquiry.
Charitable foundations (e.g., The Child Development Centre, Save the Children)
Some provide one-time support or annual subsidies for therapy.
Religious or community groups offering direct aid or sponsorship
Check with your church, mosque, or temple—many offer quiet support for families in need.
School-Based Financial Aid
Learning support grants and shadow teacher funding (via EDB)
If your child is in a local school, ask about EDB-funded support.
Assistance from school social workers or SEN coordinators
These staff members can help you apply for aid or connect with community resources.
Smart Ways to Save on Therapy-Related Costs
Use Free Resources at Home
Online therapy tools and printable materials
Websites like Do2Learn, Twinkl, and Autism Little Learners offer free worksheets.
YouTube channels or apps created by therapists
Many therapists share tips and activities online—free to use.
Sensory play and skill-building using household items
Rice bins, homemade playdough, and matching games are simple and effective.
Learn from Other Parents
Join local SEN parent groups on Facebook or WhatsApp
These groups often share tips, referrals, and second-hand items.
Exchange resources like used therapy tools, books, or even session swaps
Save by sharing visual schedules, flashcards, or games.
Attend free or low-cost workshops to build your home skills
NGOs often run workshops for parents on how to support their child.
Work With Your Therapist on a Budget Plan
Be honest about what you can afford
Most therapists understand and will try to help you stay within your limits.
Prioritize goals together (communication vs behavior vs self-care)
Focus on one or two areas to get the most value.
Ask for homework activities to reduce the number of paid sessions
The more you do at home, the fewer sessions you’ll need to book.
Real Stories from Hong Kong Families
Mei’s Story – Combining Free Public Therapy and Parent Training
Diagnosis through Child Assessment Centre
Mei’s daughter was assessed through a public center—free of charge.
Weekly speech therapy at public hospital
She now attends regular sessions at the nearest public hospital.
Attends NGO workshops for parents to continue support at home
Mei also joined a parent training group from a local NGO.
Ali’s Story – From Expensive Private Therapy to Blended Support
Started with full private ABA, later added Heep Hong NGO OT support
Ali began with costly ABA sessions but added NGO services to balance the cost.
Reduced ABA sessions but saw continued progress
By mixing services, his son still made steady gains.
Uses free online visuals and flashcards at home
Ali uses free resources to support learning outside therapy.
Emma’s Story – Getting Support Through School and Community
Receives therapy via school-based program
Emma’s son gets weekly speech and OT through his mainstream school.
School social worker helped apply for Disability Allowance
The school also helped her apply for government funding.
Joined local parent network for playdates and emotional support
Emma says parent networks gave her emotional and practical help.
Step-by-Step Guide to Start Therapy Without Breaking the Bank
Step 1: Get a Diagnosis or Referral
Through MCHC or private GP
Start with a visit to your local Maternal and Child Health Centre.
Request referral to Child Assessment Centre
This gets you into the public system for assessments and referrals.
Step 2: Explore Public and NGO Options First
Apply for free or subsidized therapy before going private
Use what’s available in the public system to reduce upfront costs.
Use NGO services to bridge gaps
NGOs can offer extra sessions or services while waiting for public support.
Step 3: Compare Clinics and Ask Questions
Call and ask about payment plans or packages
Don’t be afraid to ask. Many centers are flexible.
Visit and check therapist qualifications
Make sure your therapist is qualified and experienced.
Ask if they offer a free trial or assessment
A trial session helps you decide before spending too much.
Step 4: Join Parent Communities
Learn about free events, grants, and therapists from others
Other parents often know the best low-cost options.
Get support and practical tips
You’re not alone. There’s help out there.
Conclusion
Therapy for autism in Hong Kong doesn’t have to be out of reach. With a little planning and the right support, you can find effective therapy for autism in Hong Kong without draining your wallet.
Public services, NGOs, and creative strategies can all play a part. Remember—every child deserves care, no matter your budget.
Found a great budget-friendly therapy option? Share it in the comments or message us for a feature!
Optional SEO & Engagement Add-ons
- Infographic: “How to Find Affordable Autism Therapy in HK – 4-Step Flowchart”
- Downloadable Checklist: “Questions to Ask Before Booking a Therapy Session”
- Interactive Budget Planner Tool: Estimate costs based on therapy type
- FAQs Section:
- How long is the wait for free therapy in HK?
- Can I combine public and private therapy?
- Is ABA ever offered at low cost?
