Diagnostic Testing

Providing clarity and direction on your child’s needs.

At Westside, we understand that diagnostic testing can feel overwhelming for families, especially when it’s a new experience. That’s why we’ve designed a warm, welcoming environment and a flexible, supportive process that ensures families feel heard and confident every step of the way. Our experienced team—known for their compassionate approach—takes the time to answer your questions and guide you through the process with care.

As a trusted provider of pediatric therapy services, Westside brings deep expertise in child development—spanning sensory, language, social-emotional, cognitive, and behavioral areas—into the diagnostic process. Licensed clinical psychologists and neuropsychologists conduct thorough evaluations tailored to your child’s needs, leading to a clear, comprehensive report and feedback session. Whether you’re seeking answers, planning next steps, or pursuing services like ABA therapy (which requires an autism diagnosis), we’re here to help you find the right path forward.

Autism Screening & Diagnostic Support

At Westside, we guide families through every step of the autism evaluation process—from initial screening to diagnosis and next steps. Early diagnosis provides clarity and access to life-changing early intervention services like ABA therapy, helping children reach key developmental milestones.

  • Autism diagnosis for littles (SAIL)
  • Autism diagnosis for over 6 yrs
  • Diagnosis for Intellectual developmental delays, ADHD, Anxiety disorder, Behavioral disorder, Depression, Oppositional, Defiant Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, & more

Wondering if your child may benefit from an autism evaluation?

This quick questionnaire offers guidance on whether a full diagnostic evaluation may be the right next step based on your child’s communication, social, and behavioral skills.

Start the Pre-screening

Start with a free online screener

Fill out our free autism pre-screening tool to assess your child's current state.

Schedule a formal evaluation

If needed, we’ll conduct an in-person assessment using the research-based ADOS-2 tool and other medical guidelines and best practices.

Review the results

We share your child’s evaluation to determine if they meet the criteria for a diagnosis.

Get connected to support

If diagnosed, we’ll guide you toward next steps, including access to ABA and/or pediatric therapies.

Find a Location Near You

Locations

FAQs

  • How do I know if my child needs a diagnostic evaluation?

    A diagnostic evaluation gives you clarity. If you’ve noticed delays, differences, or concerns in how your child communicates, plays, learns, or behaves — a formal evaluation helps identify what’s going on and what support could help them thrive.
    Many parents come in with questions — not with a “label” in mind.

    A diagnostic evaluation can:

    • Identify the child’s specific needs and strengths
    • Determine if a developmental difference or condition (such as autism) is present
    • Help guide the right therapy, resources, and next steps sooner
    • Provide a foundation for school supports, insurance coverage, and care planning
    • Reduce your uncertainty — and give you a clear roadmap forward

    The earlier we understand what your child needs, the faster you can get them connected with the right support — at the right time.

  • Are diagnostic evaluations only for autism? What else does Westside diagnose?

    Westside conducts diagnostic evaluations for many conditions including autism, Intellectual developmental delays, ADHD, Anxiety disorder, Behavioral disorder, Depression, Oppositional, Defiant Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, & more

  • Do I need to do diagnostic testing at Westside to receive pediatric therapy?

    No, you do not need to complete diagnostic testing at Westside to begin therapy. Your child will need an official medical diagnosis for autism to begin ABA therapy though it can be from any medical professional.

  • How much does it cost?

    Cost depends on insurance coverage and how much of your deductible and out of pocket is met. We find that many of our families have insurance that is in-network, and that they have already met much of their out of pocket limits with other appointments. In these instances, the cost of a diagnostic evaluation is primarily covered by insurance.

  • Where are the diagnostic evaluations completed?

    Diagnostic evaluations are most often completed at our facility in Orland Park, IL.
    That said, Westside has over 25 clinic locations throughout the Chicagoland area, including Rockford and DeKalb, to provide any therapy services needed at a clinic that is closer to you.

  • What is the difference between diagnostic testing or a screening?

    A screening is a quick check.
    It helps identify if a child may need further evaluation. Screenings are brief, use short standardized tools or questionnaires, and help flag potential developmental concerns early. Screenings do not give a diagnosis — they help determine if more in-depth testing is recommended.

    A diagnostic evaluation is a comprehensive assessment.
    It is longer, more detailed, and uses specialized testing to determine if a child meets criteria for a specific developmental condition (such as autism). It gives a formal diagnosis (if appropriate) and provides recommendations, next steps, and referrals for treatment.

Getting Started

If you are interested, submit an inquiry below. Our Patient Coordinator will call to help you determine a plan forward. If you are still unsure, you can call us anytime at (815) 469-1500 for more information.