Pediatric Therapy Services & Autism Evaluations in Oak Lawn, IL

10201 S Cicero Ave Suite F,
Oak Lawn, IL 60453

   708-358-6937
   oaklawn@westsidect.com
   708-232-8993

8 AM-7 PM      Mon-Fri

Specialized Care for Children Ages 5 & Under

At Westside’s Oak Lawn clinic, ABA therapy and pediatric services operate across two dedicated floors, providing families with access to ABA, speech, occupational, feeding therapy, and counseling in a single, fully coordinated setting.

For young children showing early signs of autism, we provide fast, no-cost evaluations. Results in just days. Take the next step with confidence.

Answers, Faster • Built for the Early Years • All Care, One Place • Unified Team

Get Started

When Should You Consider an Autism Evaluation?

Early identification is important, especially for kids under age 5. Potential signs of autism or another developmental difference include:

  • Delayed speech or limited vocabulary
  • Repetitive behaviors (e.g., lining up toys, repeating words/phrases, etc.)
  • Limited eye contact or difficulty engaging with others
  • Strong reliance on routines or becoming upset with small changes 
  • Sensory sensitivities, such as being overwhelmed by sounds, textures, or lights

If you’re considering an autism evaluation in Oak Lawn, our team is here to support you. We offer virtual diagnostic testing so you can get answers sooner, and from the comfort of home.

The Westside Way at Oak Lawn

At our Oak Lawn clinic, relationships come first. Our team takes the time to know your child, partner with your family, and celebrate every milestone along the way. You’ll find a collaborative team that brings genuine enthusiasm to every session and creates a place where kids are excited to walk through our doors.

Therapies Westside Offers at Our Oak Lawn Clinic

At our Oak Lawn clinic, therapy is centered around helping children grow with confidence—one step at a time. Through a range of coordinated services, we help children build skills that support everyday success at home, at school, and beyond.

  • Getting answers early can help you better understand how to support your child. Our SAIL program offers fully remote, no-cost autism evaluations with results in just a few days. We walk you through what those results mean and help guide next steps, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

    Learn More

  • Our ABA therapy in Oak Lawn helps children build meaningful skills that support everyday life, including communication, social interaction, and independence. Through personalized, structured sessions, ABA therapy for autism in Oak Lawn focuses on steady progress that feels achievable. We work closely with families to help these skills carry into daily routines.

    Learn More

  • Our counseling services provide a safe, supportive space where children can express themselves and build healthy coping skills. Whether navigating behavior changes, social challenges, or big emotions, sessions are designed to help children feel understood while developing confidence and emotional balance over time.

    Learn More

  • Feeding therapy supports children who may struggle with picky eating, sensory sensitivities, or oral-motor challenges. Using a gradual, supportive approach, we help children build comfort with different foods and create more positive, less stressful mealtime experiences for both children and families.

    Learn More

  • Our occupational therapy program helps children develop the skills needed for independence in daily life. From fine motor development to sensory processing and coordination, sessions are engaging and goal-focused—helping children participate more comfortably in routines at home, at school, and in social settings.

    Learn More

  • Speech therapy supports children in becoming more confident communicators. Whether working on speech clarity, language development, or social communication, sessions are tailored to each child’s needs. We focus on helping children express themselves more clearly and connect with others in everyday situations.

    Learn More

4.8
Victoria K. profile picture
Victoria K.
2 years ago
My son has been going to Westside for just about a year and it has been the best thing that has happened to our family. Truly my son's joy and quality of life are so much more happier and positive. Ms.Erika my son's bcba is absolutely amazing. She has always taking the time to really understand my son, his behaviors, and his needs. She is also extremely involved with our family which makes me feel so informed and confident to help my son thrive at home now as well. Ms.Shada is my son's speech therapist and she is also amazing! My son had very little vocal communication prior to starting Westside. Communication was his main cause for his behaviors and MOST FRUSTRATIONS. Since working with Ms.Shada my son now has a communication devices that he navigates effortlessly and confidentially uses it to communicate to everyone :) he has also show so much growth in his own vocal communication. Lastly my son's day to day ALL STAR TEAM are one of a kind! They take the time each day to work with my son and make sure he is successful with all of his goals while still providing him with the structure and fun he needs. WE LOVE WESTSIDE CHILDREN’S THERAPY OAKLAWN!
Dominique S. profile picture
Dominique S.
2 years ago
I love Westside Children’s Therapy! My son has grown so much in his abilities to adapt to his social environment, speech, feeding and more. I was on a long journey finding the help that my son needed and I finally found it here. What I love most about Westside CT is the care and time the therapists put into the children. They truly care! My absolute favorite person is Mary Beth! She's so warm and inviting to all and is truly the perfect representation of Westside CT. She gives such a warm grandmother feel and I absolutely love her! She loves my son and all the children there. It shows each and every time I enter the building and it never waivers. Thank you Mary Beth and all the amazing therapists!!!
Courtney S. profile picture
Courtney S.
2 years ago
I’ve been wanting to write this review for quite some time but I honestly don’t know where to start or how to express my feelings about how amazing our family’s experience has been at the Oak Lawn West Side Children’s Therapy location. My son(7) started in April 2023, he has autism with high support needs, was completely non verbal with no desire to use his AAC device, has OCD tendencies, would not interact/play with peers- just to name a few of my son’s struggles. The first person I spoke with was Mary Beth, the clinic manager. This woman has been a godsend us. She made me feel so understood and heard about every concern I had for my child and to this day a year later MB still makes me feel that way. My son loves walking in the door and seeing MB & Katherine there to greet him, he adores them both. The clinic is always decorated for the kids & they really enjoy looking at all the different pictures, colors, & shapes hanging throughout the office- my son is terrified of waiting rooms and this definitely has helped! I really appreciate the extra effort put in to making waiting a lot more fun. Ericka is my son’s BCBA & I don’t know how I ever did it without her, I honestly feel like she helps me be a better Mom sometimes. She has given me so much advice and shown me new ideas to help make things easier for my child, Ericka has even come to IEP meetings at school with us. My son clicked with Ericka almost instantly and it’s been awesome seeing him thrive and crush so many goals under her guidance. I appreciate her so much. My son had a grand mal seizure in the clinic (July 2023) it was terrifying for everyone and it was the first time that has ever happened to my son, after being rushed to the hospital and a few days in the hospital- my son was sent home on seizure meds & with a rescue seizure medication and a seizure protocol. MB and E were extremely concerned about my son, they checked on him every day until he was back in their clinic and while he was still home resting, they were trained on how to use his rescue seizure medication and on the seizure protocol. That medication really changed my sons behavior and he became a little aggressive, unfocused, and uncooperative (unfortunately) he was struggling for a little bit there but he still enjoyed ABA. One day in December 2023, while my son was at ABA Ericka reached out to me to let me know something was unusual with Jordan that day and she suggested I come pick him. I picked him up and took him to Luries Children’s Hospital as per his neurologist, Ericka met us there and sat with us at the hospital for hours. After that scare there was a change in his medication again but we started seeing improvement (epilepsy is difficult to figure out). Ericka, I appreciate everything you do for my family and I can’t thank you enough for how much you care about my boy. As a mom, it’s hard to let your baby go spend hours a day with (at the beginning) strangers. Especially when your baby has no way of communicating anything to you, I know my son loves Westside because they love him too. (Part 1)
Christine W. profile picture
Christine W.
2 years ago
My daughter has been with westside oak lawn children’s therapy for 2.5 years now and I have nothing but good things to say. The progress she has made is above and beyond our expectations. From even just walking in the door, being greeted by Marybeth and Katherine’s smiling faces , to the fun , colorful , seasonal decor , my daughter happily runs in everyday. It is her favorite place, her home away from home. They treat her like family and it is so comforting knowing she is in good hands . The services and therapists are amazing. Emily (speech) Jazmine and Latesha(OT) Emily, Andrea, Jenna , Rachel (RBT’s) Kaitlin (BCBA) are truly the most kind hearted , compassionate , patient , hard working crew . They are knowledgeable , professional, energetic and dedicated to each and every kiddo . Our daughter is so lucky to have worked with each and every one of them so closely. We are grateful to be part of the westside family and thankful for everything they have done for us.
Michelle profile picture
Michelle
2 years ago
Westside Children’s Therapy oak lawn is a diamond. From being greeted with such warm and kind , absolutely amazing staff. Mrs. Mary Beth having a loving fun friendship with the kiddos, and Catherine so kind and caring. Wanting to help with all their needs. To the supportive staff that will encourage and guide your precious treasures. I have nothing bad to say about Westside. My kids have excelled in their programs. Having fun in ABA, SPEECH, OT, and FEEDING THERAPY. I could not be happier with them. Can't wait to see my kiddos Excell and grow. You are all amazing. Thank you for the Hope we have in a bright and communitive future.
Marisa A. profile picture
Marisa A.
2 years ago
I normally don’t write reviews but I was talking with a friend who was asking me if I would recommend Westside for ABA because I send my son there and she is nervous and wanted an honest opinion. So I thought I’d share.

When I first brought him I was so scared to leave my son there as he is non verbal and has never left my side. I was greeted by the most welcoming person ever Marybeth. She answered all my questions and calmed my nerves and made me rest assure that my son would be in great hands. You can tell she gives her whole heart into Westside. I don’t know if I would have chosen to bring my son to ABA at Westside had it not been for Marybeth. Now almost a year in my son has improved so much. He has the best BCBA Ms Emilly is so patience with both my son and myself. She is always available to answer any questions. She absolutely goes the extra mile. I cannot say enough great things about the wonderful RBTs. They are patient and kind and hold high standards while offers so much support. They are such a blessing to our family. If you are on the fence between picking a place to obtain services for your child don’t hesitate!! As long as you have Marybeth and the wonderful staff at Westside you are in great hands !!!
Rachel C. profile picture
Rachel C.
2 years ago
I have to say I am so happy that we got in with Westside. It was a little bit of a wait but definitely worth it. The improvement in my daughter has been amazing. Speech with Chloe and OT with Latesha have really been a game changer. They are highly informative and always spend a few minutes before and after each session to ask about my daughter and give feedback on her session. I highly recommend and would gladly give my own personal testimony to anybody that asked. Not only are the therapists wonderful but so are the receptionists. MaryBeth really loves her job and the kids. You can tell by how she makes each holiday so special! Her beautiful decorations make me so happy especially when my daughter points them all out and tells me what they are. She always looks for them and tells me what they are. I'm afraid that if the decorations disappeared not only my daughter but myself would have a tantrum. Haha in all seriousness, the staff is incredible, very welcoming and the waiting room is super comfortable and colorful and clean!
Cristin S. profile picture
Cristin S.
3 years ago
IGNORANT AND NEGLIGENT FEEDING THERAPIST! We saw Becky L. for feeding therapy since my 8 month old refuses to take a bottle or eat solids. At the intake appointment, Becky evaluated him looking in his mouth and taking pictures. She told me that she saw a tongue tie, lip tie and tether (cheek) ties. She then nonchalantly referred him to a pediatric dentist to get a laser to release the ties and said that she would send over the pictures and evaluation documents to the pediatric dentist. After Becky’s diagnosis, I instead took my baby to see the top pediatric ENT at Lurie for an evaluation. He informed me at that he didn’t see any ties and directed me to read a recent article published in the New York Times titled, “Inside the booming business of cutting babies’ tongues”. The article states that in 2020, a panel of 16 leading ENTs came out and said that tongue ties are over diagnosed and performed on and that cheek ties should never be done. I then took my baby to his pediatrician who also said he didn’t see any concern. Through discussing with my baby’s doctors and researching the topic I came to find that tongue tie revision is a very controversial topic. Becky should have given me more information and told me to get an opinion from a doctor and not just carelessly referred my baby to have a procedure that is not without risks. She should have explained that tongue ties is a heavily debated topic and to educate myself. If I would have taken her advice, my baby would have seen the pediatric dentist and most likely have had a procedure that he didn’t need.
Emily K. profile picture
Emily K.
3 years ago
Melissa R. profile picture
Melissa R.
3 years ago

Support Your Child’s Growth and Development in Oak Lawn

Getting started with pediatric therapy should feel simple and supportive. Here’s what to expect:

1. Contact our team
Reach us at 708-358-6937 or submit a contact form, and a team member will be in touch to schedule intake.

2. Intake call
We’ll discuss your child’s needs, verify insurance and answer any questions you may have.

3. Service matching
From there, we can recommend the right pediatric therapy services & create a custom plan for your child.

 

FAQs

How long does it take to get an autism evaluation in Oak Lawn?

With our SAIL program, most families complete the full evaluation process in 2 to 3 days—compared to the months-long waits typical at many providers. The entire process is conducted virtually, so there’s no need to travel or take time off work for in-person appointments.

How much does an autism evaluation cost?

At Westside, autism diagnostic testing through our SAIL program is completely free. There’s no cost to the family and no obligation to continue with any services after testing is complete. We believe early answers shouldn’t come with a financial barrier.

What ages does Westside treat at its Oak Lawn clinic?

Westside Children’s Therapy in Oak Lawn provides services for infants, toddlers, children, and even teens. Our therapists support children from early developmental stages through adolescence, offering age-appropriate care that helps them reach their full potential.

How do you make therapy sessions engaging for children?

To make therapy sessions engaging for children, we use play-based activities, child-led learning, interactive games, and motivating tools that match each child’s interests. Our therapists create a fun, supportive environment where kids feel comfortable exploring new skills.

How do therapists track progress in ABA and other therapies?

Therapists track progress through ongoing assessments, data collection, goal monitoring, and regular parent feedback. In ABA, every skill is measured using detailed data to evaluate growth. For other therapies, clinicians use observations, standardized tools, and session notes. This ensures treatment plans stay effective and evolve with your child’s needs.

How can feeding therapy help children with picky eating or swallowing difficulties?

Feeding therapy helps children overcome challenges with chewing, swallowing, picky eating, or food aversions. Therapists use gentle, sensory-based strategies to build comfort with new foods, strengthen oral-motor skills, and create positive mealtime experiences.

Do you accept insurance for pediatric therapy services in Oak Lawn?

Pediatric therapy can be expensive without insurance in Oak Lawn. At Westside Children’s Therapy, we accept insurance that makes our services more affordable. It is best to connect with our team to understand your options.

How do I schedule an evaluation with Westside Children’s Therapy?

To schedule an appointment with us, you can submit the form available on our website or connect with our team to learn more at 708-358-6937.