What Is Aphasia? Signs, Treatment, and the Disability Tax Credit in Ontario
Aphasia is a communication disorder that can affect a person’s ability to speak, understand language, read, and write. It most often happens after a stroke, but it can also occur after a brain injury, brain tumour, or other neurological condition.
At Evergreen Communication Therapy, we believe communication is a basic human right. When aphasia changes how someone communicates, it can impact far more than conversation - it can affect relationships, independence, work, and confidence. The good news: with the right supports, people with aphasia can make meaningful progress and continue to participate in the activities that matter most to them.
What aphasia can look like day to day
Aphasia is different for every person. Some people have difficulty finding words, while others may speak in short phrases, mix up sounds, or have trouble understanding what’s being said - especially when conversations move quickly.
Common experiences may include:
Needing extra time to respond
Difficulty finding the “right” word
Challenges following group conversations or phone calls
Trouble reading emails, forms, menus, or instructions
Difficulty writing texts, notes, or work-related communication
Increased fatigue or frustration during communication
Aphasia is not a loss of intelligence. It’s a change in how the brain processes language.
How therapy can help
Aphasia therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Evidence-based therapy focuses on the person’s goals and real-life communication needs - whether that’s ordering coffee, participating in family conversations, returning to work, or advocating for themselves in medical appointments.
Depending on the person’s needs, therapy may include:
Strategies to improve word-finding and sentence formulation
Supported conversation techniques for families and communication partners
Tools and supports (including AAC) to reduce communication barriers
Practice with real-world tasks like phone calls, emails, and appointments
Confidence-building through meaningful participation and community connection
Our approach is collaborative and functional: we work with clients and families to build skills, reduce barriers, and celebrate every step forward.
Financial support: the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) in Ontario
Living with a disability can come with additional costs—many of which are unavoidable. In Canada, the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a non-refundable tax credit that may help reduce income tax payable for individuals with disabilities. The goal is to provide greater tax equity by offering some relief for disability-related expenses.
While aphasia is a communication disorder, it can significantly affect daily functioning—especially when it impacts a person’s ability to express themselves or be understood reliably.
How to apply for the DTC
The application is completed using the CRA’s Form T2201 (Disability Tax Credit Certificate).
Forms are available online here: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/forms-publications/forms/t2201.html
Accessibility options: Fillable and large-font forms are available for download, and voice-dictated options may be available upon request.
In general, the process involves:
Reviewing the form requirements and gathering any relevant information.
Completing the sections for the individual/applicant (or their representative).
Having a qualified health professional complete the appropriate section(s) of the form (for aphasia, this may include the “Speaking” section, and sometimes other sections depending on the person’s overall profile).
Submitting the completed form to the CRA for review.
Important note about eligibility
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is responsible for determining eligibility for the DTC. Even if a person has aphasia, eligibility depends on how the condition affects daily functioning and whether the CRA criteria are met.
Evergreen Communication Therapy can support clients by:
Providing guidance on what information may be helpful to gather
Completing relevant clinical portions of the form when appropriate (for example, the “Speaking” section)
Offering documentation that describes how communication challenges affect daily life, when clinically relevant
We can also help clients and families think through practical examples of how aphasia impacts day-to-day activities (e.g., making phone calls, communicating needs, managing appointments, participating in work or community life).
You’re not alone
Aphasia can feel isolating, especially when communication becomes effortful. But with the right supports, people with aphasia can reconnect with their voice, their relationships, and their routines.
If you’re looking for aphasia therapy, consultation, or guidance for a family member, we’re here to help.
Connect with us
To learn more about our virtual aphasia services or to book a consultation, visit: https://www.evergreen-therapy.ca/connect
