How to Explain Autism to Kids
Talking to a child about autism can bring up a lot of questions. You may be explaining their own autism diagnosis, helping a sibling understand why their brother or sister experiences certain situations differently, or
Helping you navigate
the autism journey,
every step of the way.
If you’re considering an autism evaluation, it’s completely normal to feel weighed down by “what ifs.” Many parents worry about labels, about what a diagnosis might mean for their child’s future, or how others might see them.
What we hear most often, though, is this: families wish they had answers sooner, not because something was wrong, but because understanding helped them support their child with more confidence and care.
An evaluation can bring some clarity to a situation. An evaluation can help a person understand their child may need, what may work best to support them, and how to proceed with more confidence at home, at school, and in life.
At Cultivate, our role is to help this process feel more manageable. While we do not conduct autism diagnostic evaluations in our clinics, we support families in navigating next steps by connecting them with trusted in-person providers and virtual autism evaluation options. Our team is here to walk alongside caregivers during those early stages of awareness.
A diagnosis is not about defining your child. It’s about understanding them better and opening doors to services, resources, and a plan that can help them grow.
A screening tool used to flag possible early autism traits in toddlers ages 16–30 months.
A parent questionnaire that helps identify autism-related traits in children ages 4-11.
Getting an autism evaluation in Barrington, IL can sometimes involve long waitlists or limited appointment availability. Families searching for autism testing or an autism diagnosis near Barrington often find that access can vary depending on provider capacity. While our clinics do not conduct autism diagnostic evaluations, we help families in Barrington and surrounding communities explore trusted in-person providers as well as virtual autism evaluation options that may offer greater flexibility and shorter wait times. Our goal is to help families move forward with clarity and confidence as they determine the best next step.
Dr. Burns conducts virtual autism evaluations across all Cultivate BHE locations, guiding parents through the diagnostic process with care, clarity, and expertise.
Dr. Jazmin Burns is a highly experienced, neuro-affirming, and compassionate psychologist dedicated to helping individuals achieve mental and emotional wellness. With a Doctorate in Psychology, Dr. Burns brings a wealth of expertise and care to her clients. She specializes in neurodivergence and psychological evaluations and is passionate about empowering her clients to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Experience the transformative power of mental health and neurodevelopmental support with Dr. Burns today.
Families receive a summary of results and clarification about whether diagnostic criteria are met.
Families receive support and direction for what to do next, which may include therapy options and/or school and community resources that meet your child’s needs.
What Families Do After the Autism Diagnosis
If you’re looking for support with autism evaluation in Barrington, we’re here to guide you through the next step with clarity and compassion.
Call us at 855-444-5664 to get started and have any questions answered. We’re happy to support you and your family.
Talking to a child about autism can bring up a lot of questions. You may be explaining their own autism diagnosis, helping a sibling understand why their brother or sister experiences certain situations differently, or
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If you are seeing signs of autism in your toddler, it is perfectly fine to want answers. If you are seeing signs that your child is entering preschool or school age, it is perfectly fine to want answers.
It depends on the type of evaluation. If you are choosing an online option, it will be faster. If you are choosing an in-person option, it will depend on the demand in the area.
Yes. We will help you navigate the system so that you are not left to figure it out on your own.
Yes. Virtual evaluations are available.
Dr. Jazmin Burns is a highly experienced, neuro-affirming, and compassionate psychologist dedicated to helping individuals achieve mental and emotional wellness. With a Doctorate in Psychology, Dr. Burns brings a wealth of expertise and care to her clients. She specializes in neurodivergence and psychological evaluations and is passionate about empowering her clients to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Experience the transformative power of mental health and neurodevelopmental support with Dr. Burns today.
Dr. Burns’ academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in English, emphasizing Literature, Criticism, and Theory, along with a minor in Psychology, earned in 2013. She continued her education at Alliant International University, obtaining a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology in 2017 and a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree in 2019.
Dr. Burns’ career in neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDDs) started in 2010 as a volunteer and research assistant at the UC Davis MIND Institute. There, she received extensive training in NDDs under some of the leading experts in the field. Her experience spans roles as an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Behavior Technician and years of specialized training at the UC Davis MIND Institute. She also participated in the Leadership and Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program for three years, gaining comprehensive skills in the field.
Throughout her career, Dr. Burns has worked with individuals of all ages across various settings, including private practice, clinics, hospitals, and community-based environments. Her passion for increasing access to care, particularly for underserved populations, led Dr. Burns to become an Authorization Holder, granted the authority to practice by the PSYPACT Commission, allowing her to provide services across state lines. Dr. Burns is committed to empowering families by offering psychoeducation on diagnoses, school rights, and available resources, ensuring they feel confident and capable in supporting their children.
