A testing method for use with a patient stimulation system includes providing a stimulation system including a patient control unit. The patient control unit initiates and terminates treatment periods. At least one period of stimulation to stimulate the patient is automatically provided upon initiating a treatment period. Another method includes a system test method for use with a therapy system. The method includes providing a therapy system having a plurality of components; the therapy system physiologically interacting with a patient. A diagnostic self test of a component of the therapy system is performed internally to the system to determine if the component is functioning properly at a time when the therapy system is not interacting physiologically with the patient. Apparatus for using such methods are also provided.