Autism Diagnostic Testing - Westside Children’s Therapy

Comprehensive, Virtual Autism Diagnostic Testing, Delivered at No Cost

Early answers can change everything.

We designed our S.A.I.L. (Swift Autism Identification & Link) diagnostic program to reduce long waits and make it easier for families to get the answers they need.

What Families Can Expect

A convenient, virtual-first experience that reduces travel for families
Testing to be completed in 2–3 days, with results ready shortly after
Care led by a licensed clinical psychologist
A formal, insurance-approved diagnosis when criteria are met
Clear guidance on next steps, supported by a dedicated Family Navigator

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This is No-Cost & No-Commitment: Here’s Why

Early support matters. We provide families with timely, no-strings-attached testing because:

Technology Finally Allows Us to Do Better: Today, we can gather developmental information with the same clinical accuracy as in-person care, faster & more securely with telehealth.
Less Paperwork, Faster Access: Since our diagnostic test is free of charge, you can skip the insurance hassles that slow down care.
You Know Your Child Best: Every child’s needs are unique. We never pressure families to begin care with Westside.

Common Signs of Autism

Many families first notice small differences in how their child communicates, plays, or responds to the world around them.

You may be noticing things like:

Limited or inconsistent eye contact
Difficulty responding to name or social cues
Delayed speech, gestures, or communication
Difficulty with transitions or changes in routine
Repetitive movements or repeated behaviors (e.g., hand flapping, lining up toys)
Strong focus on specific interests or objects
Preference for playing alone or parallel play

If you’re noticing some of these behaviors and want help deciding what to do next, you can start with a short screening.

Take the Questionnaire

What to Expect

A Complete Path From First Questions to a Clear Plan in Days

Rapid Online Screening

You complete a short questionnaire about your child’s behavior.

Parent Interview

In a 1-on-1 interview, our clinician will ask questions to learn more about your child and what you’re noticing.

Child Observation

Your child engages in structured, play-based activities while the clinician observes. We guide parents on setup, materials & interaction on screen.

Results & Diagnostic Report

We determine a diagnosis and send over a written report detailing your child’s developmental profile.

Follow-Up (In-Person or Telehealth)

We review the results with you, answer every question, and explain what the findings mean.

Turning Answers into Action

We will never hand you a report and leave you to figure out what comes next. When results are ready, we translate them into a clear, practical plan that shows exactly what to do next. This may include:

Referrals to trusted providers
Direct access to medical, behavioral, or speech services with Westside
Therapy or testing recommendations
Community resources and parent support
Guidance on financial programs and assistance

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Therapies at Westside

We support children with autism and other developmental needs through coordinated therapies that focus on the whole child—not just one area of concern.

ABA Therapy

Helping children learn everyday skills that support communication, play, and independence.

Speech Therapy

Supporting your child in expressing needs, understanding language, and connecting with others.

Occupational Therapy

Building skills for play, self-care, regulation, and daily routines.

Physical Therapy

Improving strength, balance, and movement for confident participation.

Counseling

Supporting emotional growth, coping skills, and stronger family relationships.

Feeding Therapy

Helping children feel safe, comfortable, and successful with eating.

In-Network With 100+ Insurance Plans for Therapy Services

We will verify your insurance and explain any potential costs for therapy up front, so there are no surprises.

See Accepted Insurance

FAQs

At what age can my child be tested for autism?

We provide autism diagnostic testing for children from the early toddler years through age 5.

Some children show clear developmental patterns that can be evaluated as early as 16–18 months, while others may need a bit more time for certain skills to emerge.

If you’re unsure whether now is the right time, we’re happy to talk through what you’re noticing and help you decide whether to move forward or wait a little longer.
How much does an autism diagnosis cost?

Our autism diagnostic testing is provided at no cost and does not require insurance.

If you choose to move forward with therapy services at Westside, we are in-network with 100+ insurance plans to help make ongoing care accessible and affordable.
What do I need for a virtual appointment?

You’ll need an electronic device with a camera, a stable internet connection, and a quiet space. Our licensed clinical psychologist will send instructions before your appointment, so you’re fully prepared.
How do online diagnostic appointments work?

Our virtual assessment includes two main components, usually lasting 1–2 hours, all done through secure telehealth:

1. A parent interview
We talk with you about your child’s development, strengths, and any concerns you’ve noticed.

2. A guided observation
Our clinician engages your child in simple, developmentally appropriate activities to understand communication, play, and social interaction. Since these sessions are virtual, the clinician will guide you on setting up the activities and on interacting with your child on screen.

Additional time and sessions may be needed to ensure accurate, complete information, depending on the child’s development and needs.
How soon can therapy begin after a diagnosis?

If ABA therapy is recommended, we help you get started as soon as possible. Our team verifies insurance, explains the process, and coordinates scheduling so your child can begin receiving support without unnecessary delays.
What if my child is not diagnosed with autism?

We guide you toward what your child may benefit from next—such as additional developmental testing, school and community resources, and more.

Westside offers neuropsychological testing, which takes a broader look at how your child learns, pays attention, and manages emotions. If recommended, this assessment can help clarify diagnoses and inform next steps for care.
If my child is diagnosed with autism, do I need to continue care with Westside?

No. Our role is to provide a thorough assessment and clear recommendations so you can decide what’s best for your child. You’re free to work with any providers you choose, and we’re happy to offer guidance or referrals if helpful.
How long does the assessment take?

The length of the assessment varies based on your child’s age and needs. Most families complete the process over two sessions: a parent interview and a child observation. Each session typically lasts 1–2 hours, with the parent interview often taking the longest.

For some older children or those who need additional activities, the observation session may be slightly longer.
Do I need a referral?

No—Westside accepts families directly. You can book now using our calendar.
What diagnostic tools do you use during the process?

Our licensed clinical psychologists use a combination of gold-standard, research-backed assessment tools. This includes structured play-based observation, parent interviews, developmental history, rating scales, and other standardized measures.
Do you diagnose for co-occurring conditions (ADHD, sensory needs, anxiety)?

The autism assessment focuses specifically on autism. During the process, our clinicians may notice signs that additional factors—such as attention, sensory processing, or anxiety—could be contributing.

If that happens, we’ll explain what we’re seeing and discuss options for next steps. This may include referrals for further testing, or—if you prefer—neuropsychological testing at Westside, which holistically examines attention, learning, emotional and behavioral concerns.
What is my role in the diagnostic process?

Parents or caregivers are essential partners in the process.

You’ll share insights into your child’s communication, behavior, and daily routines, and your perspective will help us interpret what we observe during the process.

Book Your Autism Diagnostic Test Now

Westside also provides comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for other diagnoses at our center in Orland Park South. If you’re interested in scheduling a neuropsych evaluation, click here.

Still Deciding What’s Right for Your Family?

If you’re unsure about moving forward with full diagnostic testing, you can complete a short screening questionnaire. We’ll be in touch to discuss results and next steps.

If you’d like to connect directly, just submit an inquiry below, and a Family Navigator will reach out to answer any questions. You can also call us at (815) 469-1500.