At BY YOUR SIDE, we understand how important it is for families to get clear answers and support when they have concerns about their child’s development. Research shows that early access to interventions such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) allow children with Autism to have the best opportunity to build critical skills in areas such as social, communication, and learner readiness, which leads to the greatest likelihood of long-term independence and success.
We have partnered with EarliPoint to provide Autism evaluations utilizing innovative FDA-approved eye-tracking biomarker technology that can be utilized with children as young as 16 months. This diagnostic tool is designed to provide objective, individualized results related to your child’s specific strengths and areas of need across several domains. This information is interpreted by a qualified clinician and is integrated with your child’s developmental history, clinical observation, and standardized measures to determine the evaluation outcome.
When families first begin exploring an autism evaluation, many are looking for more than a simple answer. They want to better understand how their child communicates, learns, interacts socially, and responds to the world around them. Our evaluation process is designed to build a fuller picture of your child’s development while helping families feel supported throughout each step.
An autism assessment gathers information across several developmental areas, including communication, social interaction, behavior patterns, emotional responses, and learner readiness. Rather than focusing only on whether a child meets criteria for autism spectrum disorder, the process also highlights strengths, learning styles, and areas where additional support may be helpful. This individualized approach helps families better understand their child’s unique developmental profile.
Many parents are unsure about the difference between an autism screening and a more comprehensive evaluation. Screenings are typically shorter tools used to identify possible developmental concerns. A comprehensive autism evaluation is a more in-depth process that combines developmental history, clinical observation, structured measures, and objective tools such as EarliPoint technology. This allows clinicians to gather multiple forms of information during the autism diagnostic process instead of relying on one source alone.
Often, families seek a developmental evaluation for autism after noticing speech delays, repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, or social interaction differences. Others may pursue a toddler autism assessment after pediatricians or teachers recommend further evaluation. Many parents wonder what signs may indicate a child should be evaluated for autism and when an evaluation may be appropriate. In many cases, earlier evaluation allows families to access support services sooner and gain a clearer understanding of their child’s developmental needs.
Our autism evaluation services are also designed to guide next steps after the assessment process is complete. Depending on your child’s needs, our recommendations may include developmental monitoring, therapy referrals, or additional assessments. Families may also explore our autism therapy services – including ABA therapy – to support communication, behavior, social interaction, and daily living skills.
We recognize that the evaluation process can feel overwhelming for families. That’s why our team helps parents go over the information gathered. We’ll be there to help you better understand how autism is diagnosed in children and review any autism test results clearly. We’ll also be there to help with next steps – even when additional providers or diagnosis pathways are involved.
Complete the initial EarliPoint evaluation at one of our diagnostic locations
After the initial evaluation, complete a virtual follow-up appointment with a qualified clinician who will get more information about your child’s developmental history and needs
You will receive a comprehensive diagnostic report with results from the combined EarliPoint and clinician evaluations
The BYS team will support you in determining your path forward and beginning intervention services.
In our ongoing efforts to meet the growing needs of our families and the autism community in the Chicagoland area, we are proud to partner with local providers who offer diagnostic evaluations and insurance re-evaluations for autism, as well as neuropsychological and developmental testing without a lengthy waiting period.
Dr. Alicia Viera is a licensed clinical psychologist and Consultant Diagnostic Clinical Director for BY YOUR SIDE, providing comprehensive, individualized evaluations for children and families. She holds master's and doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology, with expertise spanning Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, learning disorders, developmental disabilities, complex trauma, and educational advocacy. Dr. Viera partners closely with occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, educators, and other providers to ensure each evaluation translates into real, actionable support across a child's life.
As the founder of Rooted Presence and Purpose, LLC, a private practice grounded in a strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming approach to care. Dr. Viera is passionate about helping families feel seen, supported, and empowered—bringing clarity, hope, and a clear path forward to every family she works with. If you are looking to schedule an evaluation, please call us at (630) 381-1925, or click Book Now. Insurances accepted for in-person evaluation: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois PPO, Cigna, Aetna, and United Healthcare PPO (Illinois only).
An evidence-based approach that helps young children with autism build communication, social, and daily living skills through individualized, play-based instruction and positive reinforcement.
A specialized group environment that supports children with autism through structured learning, social development, communication support, and real-world readiness, all within a supportive, therapy-informed setting.
Helping children strengthen fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-regulation, and independence during everyday activities at home, school, and in the community.
Fostering the development of safe, flexible eating skills to expand food variety and support healthy growth.
Ever since my son began at BY YOUR SIDE, he has become more outgoing, and says hello to people he sees from his school.
