Autism Evaluation & Diagnosis

In Peru

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

Our ABA Center:
4413 North Progress Blvd., Peru IL, 61354

Learning about your child’s development can lead to many questions, and seeking the answers is an important first step.

Children grow and develop at their own pace. If you have concerns about your child’s communication, play, learning, or social skills, an evaluation can provide valuable insight into your child’s individual challenges and opportunities.

At Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education, we support families in Peru, Illinois by offering trusted autism spectrum disorder (ASD) screenings and guidance throughout the early stages of the process. Our team helps caregivers understand the signs of autism and navigate next steps, including connecting with licensed diagnostic providers when a comprehensive autism evaluation is recommended.

A diagnosis of autism does not define who your child is as a person. What it does do is help parents and families understand how the world is experienced by the child. With early intervention and the right tools, children with autism can communicate, learn, and live independently.

You do not have to take this journey alone. Our team is committed to helping families like yours find the right path forward by connecting you with our diagnostic partners.

Autism Screening Tools

Early identification can make a difference. These autism screening tools are quick, free, and designed to help parents identify whether further evaluation may be needed. Choose the screening tool below that matches your child’s age and receive your results instantly.

M-CHAT-R

(Modified Checklist for
Autism in Toddlers)

A screening tool designed to identify early signs of autism in toddlers aged 16–30 months.

CAST

(Childhood Autism
Spectrum Test)

A screening tool used to identify early signs of autism in children 4–11 years old.

Our Commitment To Care in Peru, IL

Scheduling an autism evaluation can sometimes mean long wait times or limited available appointment slots in the Peru, IL area. Our commitment is to assist you in accessing a variety of diagnostic options, such as in-person clinicians in the Peru area or online evaluation options, to ensure you can find the evaluation that works for you.

Meet Our Virtual Diagnostic Partner:Dr. Burns

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

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 in a Diagnostic Evaluation in Peru, IL

Here’s what the diagnostic process looks like for parents and children:

1

Initial Consultation

The first step in the diagnostic process involves a meeting with a specialist where you can discuss any concerns, review your child’s developmental history, and provide important background information.

2

Comprehensive Testing & Standardized Assessments

The diagnostician will use evidence-based testing tools, which are specifically designed to meet your concerns, to assess a range of skills, including language, cognitive, motor skills, sensory sensitivities, comprehension, problem-solving, and adaptive skills.

3

Diagnosis & Discussion

The results of the assessment are summarized, and recommendations are provided for the next steps based on the assessment.

4

Guidance & Support

Parents are provided with a plan, which includes therapy options, educational resources, and community resources, to help their children succeed.

The Importance of an Autism Diagnosis in Peru

The importance of an autism diagnosis is that it gives the family a clear understanding and direction. It helps you understand your child’s strengths and weaknesses. It also opens the door for therapies and interventions that can significantly impact the life and growth of the child.

What Happens Next:

  • Access to Services: Results can be used to begin therapy (e.g., ABA therapy). With a formal medical diagnosis, insurance will often times cover your therapy. However, this depends on the insurance company.
  • Educational Supports: The results can be used to support your request for school accommodations and special education services, such as the development of a 504 plan and an individualized education program (IEP).
  • Community Resources: Many local, state, and national resources are available to support autistic children and families.
  • Future Planning: A diagnosis helps you understand your child’s needs as they age.

Schedule a Consultation in Peru, IL

Each child is different, and screenings are just the beginning. If you would like to discuss your child’s screening results or have questions about what they mean, our team is here to help.

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

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Assessments can begin in toddlerhood, and many parents begin with screening tools such as the M-CHAT-R at 16-30 months. However, assessments can be beneficial at any age if you notice differences in communication, social interaction, play, sensory needs, or flexibility with routines. It is perfectly fine to seek answers now if you have concerns.

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This varies based on the availability of scheduling and the type of assessment. Some families are able to finish the process in one to two visits, while others may require more sessions based on the age of your child and what information the assessor needs. If you are looking for a quicker solution, online assessment options may be available to help expedite the process.

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Yes. After diagnosis, there are clear steps that families should take. We can assist you in understanding therapy options (such as ABA when necessary), help you understand school options such as a 504 plan or IEP, and guide you through resources so that you are not left to try to figure everything out on your own.

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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

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Dr. Jazmin Burns

Burns Virtual Psychological Solutions

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