In September of 2001, Dr. Andrew Wakefield formulated a plan with friends and colleagues for the ideal treatment center for children with developmental disorders. The model comprised medical care, behavioral analysis and education, and clinical and laboratory research, all under one roof.

The plan progressed with the involvement of Troy and Charlie Ball. The Balls wished to create a tribute to their son Marshall, who published two books of poetry and won many awards despite immense physical challenges. It was Marshall who named the original “thoughtful house”, built as a special place for reflection in the family’s backyard. The Balls donated a beautiful piece of land in Austin, Texas for the physical plant for Thoughtful House Center for Children, and the project gained momentum in 2004 when Kelly Barnhill and Anissa Ryland joined the team. After the formation of the founding Board of Directors, Thoughtful House became a working reality in 2005 with the commencement of medical, educational, and recreational services for children with developmental disorders.