Founder Story
Hi, I’m Dr. Jessica Snowden Patel, Ph.D. — child psychologist, parent of four, and founder of The Neurodevelopmental Collective.
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If we’ve worked together before, welcome back. This clinic reflects the same values and care I’ve always offered, now with the space to grow into something even more connected and collaborative.
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I started The Neurodevelopmental Collective because I wanted families to have access to something different: a space that feels thoughtful, collaborative, and truly affirming. Too often, families come to this process feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or unsure where to turn next. I’m here to offer clarity and support—without judgment. My goal is to walk alongside you with grounded, personalized guidance and a sense of hope for what’s ahead.
This vision really took shape during my time in rural Illinois. I joined a small but deeply committed team of occupational and speech therapists who were already doing incredible work. Together, we built a multidisciplinary clinic from the ground up. Our evaluations and services focused on the whole child, not just one area of development. We collaborated closely, shared insights, and truly listened to families. The difference was powerful. Parents felt understood, questions were answered with clarity, and the support we provided felt more connected, thoughtful, and effective.
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That model has stayed with me. I continue to believe in care that is comprehensive, collaborative, and centered on each individual’s strengths. At The Neurodevelopmental Collective, our evaluations reflect this. We look at the full picture—how a person thinks, learns, communicates, relates to others, and makes sense of the world around them. Our reports are written in clear, respectful language, grounded in evidence and care. After each evaluation, every child receives a personalized letter written directly to them, something that helps them understand their unique profile in language that feels empowering and age appropriate.
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Families are at the heart of everything we do. We communicate directly with the people who know your child best, including caregivers, teachers, and therapists. We aim to make the process feel transparent and supportive every step of the way. What sets us apart is not just what we evaluate, but how we do it, and why it matters.
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While our current focus is on evaluations and therapy, our vision is broader. We are growing toward a more integrated model of care, one that brings services together and makes it easier for families to get the support they need, all in one trusted place. If you’re a professional who shares these values, I’d love to talk about ways to collaborate.
Whether you're here seeking answers, understanding, or the right next step for your child or yourself, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. I’m so glad you found us.
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Warmly,
Jessica