Autism Evaluation & Diagnosis

In Mokena

Helping you navigate
the autism journey,
every step of the way.

Our ABA Center:
19056 Henry Dr., Mokena, IL 60448

If you’re thinking about an autism diagnosis for your child, chances are that you’ve noticed something that hasn’t quite added up, perhaps in areas like communication, social connections, play, daily routines, sensory issues, or behaviors. Even if you have been “waiting and watching,” there is a moment of time when families want some clarity.

There’s also the fear of a diagnosis, which feels like a permanent label. But for most families, an evaluation actually has the opposite effect. Instead of creating more confusion, an evaluation creates clarity and provides a sense of direction.

Here at Cultivate BHE, we support families as they navigate the process of seeking an autism diagnosis. While we do not conduct diagnostic evaluations in our clinics, we help families explore trusted local and virtual options and move forward with clarity and confidence.

Getting a diagnosis is not about defining your child. It’s about understanding how your child sees the world and what will make life easier for them, now and in the years to come.

Our Autism Screening Tools

We use trusted, research-supported screening tools, including:

M-CHAT-R

(Modified Checklist for
Autism in Toddlers)

A widely used screening tool that helps identify possible early autism traits in toddlers ages 16–30 months.

CAST

(Childhood Autism
Spectrum Test)

A parent questionnaire used to assess autism-related traits in children ages 4-11.

Our Commitment To Care In Mokena

Families searching for an autism evaluation in Mokena, IL often encounter long waitlists, limited appointment availability, and uncertainty about which provider is the best fit. Access to timely autism testing or an autism diagnosis near Mokena can vary depending on demand and provider capacity.

While our clinics do not conduct autism diagnostic evaluations, we help families in Mokena and surrounding communities explore trusted local clinicians as well as virtual autism evaluation options that may offer greater flexibility and shorter wait times. Our goal is to make the process feel more manageable so families can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Meet Our Virtual Diagnostic Partner:Dr. Jazmin Burns

Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education is proud to collaborate with Jazmin Burns, Psy.D., of Burns Virtual Psychological Solutions.

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.

What to Expect at an Autism Evaluation In Mokena

Here’s a brief overview of what you might expect from a diagnostic evaluation:

1

Initial Consultation

The evaluation process usually begins with an in-depth parent interview. During this conversation, caregivers share their child’s developmental history, including early milestones, communication patterns, social interactions, and any concerns related to behavior or learning. This step helps the diagnostician gain important background information and understand the child’s strengths and challenges within their daily environment.

2

Assessment & Observation

Following the initial consultation, the clinician may use evidence-based assessment tools and structured observations to better understand the child’s communication, social interaction, play skills, and behavior patterns. These assessments are designed to evaluate areas commonly associated with autism, such as social communication differences, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities, while also considering the child’s developmental level.

3

Diagnosis & Discussion

After reviewing all collected information, the provider evaluates whether the child meets DSM-5-TR criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Families are informed of the findings and given clear feedback about the results. The provider may also identify other developmental considerations or recommend additional evaluations if needed.

4

Guidance & Support

Families receive a written report summarizing the evaluation results along with personalized recommendations for next steps. These may include therapy services, educational supports, or community resources to help support the child’s development. This guidance is intended to help families make informed decisions and feel confident about moving forward.

Why an Autism Diagnosis Can Be Helpful

A diagnosis provides families with a better understanding of what’s going on and what’s likely to help. It also eliminates the frustration of trial and error, which may not work for your child.

What Happens Next:

  • Access to Services: The results enable families to start therapy, including ABA therapy. With a medical diagnosis, insurance benefits may help families access services, depending on the provider.
  • School Supports: A diagnosis may assist families in getting support in schools through a 504 plan or an IEP.
  • Community Resources: Accessing support groups at local and national levels becomes easier once families have the right documentation and support.
  • Planning Over Time: A diagnosis provides families with a better understanding of their child’s needs over time, enabling support to change and adapt with their child.

Ready To Get Started?

If you are looking for support in Mokena, we are here to assist you in making the next step with clarity and care if you are looking for support with an autism evaluation.

Call now at 855-444-5664 to learn more about autism evaluations and scheduling or fill out our intake form to get in touch with our team.

Stay Connected

Learn More About Autism and ABA Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

icon

An evaluation will provide you with a better understanding of what may be causing the behaviors or delays you’re seeing in your child, and it will provide you with useful next steps. It’s not about making assumptions or jumping to conclusions. It’s about getting informed support.

icon

Children may exhibit behaviors that point to autism at any age, or it may not become more obvious until preschool or early elementary school age. If you’re concerned about communication, play, social connections, sensory issues, or rigidity, it’s reasonable to consider an evaluation at any age.

icon

The length of time it takes to get a diagnosis for autism depends on several factors, including the availability and type of evaluation. Some families may be able to get a virtual evaluation quickly, while in-person evaluations may depend on local demand.

icon

Yes, we’re here to help you understand what support is available to you and your child, so you’re not left to try to figure it all out on your own.

Yes, virtual evaluations are available and can be a helpful option for flexibility and faster scheduling.

contact us today

get started with an Autism Consultation

SMS

Dr. Jazmin Burns

Burns Virtual Psychological Solutions

Therapist Name

Therapist Designation