In Loving Memory of Michele Parkins — A Legacy of Compassion, Healing, and Hope
The community of Denville, New Jersey, and countless families across the region are mourning the tragic and untimely passing of Michele Parkins, a beloved Occupational Therapist, visionary leader, and devoted advocate for children and families. Michele’s life was cut short following a heartbreaking bicycle accident — a sudden loss that leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew her and were touched by her extraordinary work.
Michele was far more than a skilled therapist; she was a pioneer, a mentor, and a source of hope for families navigating the complexities of developmental challenges. As the founder of Great Kids Place, she created a nurturing environment where children of all abilities could grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. Her center became a sanctuary of support — not just a place for therapy, but a community where parents found guidance, children found empowerment, and families found understanding.
At the heart of Michele’s work was her groundbreaking development of the Sensory Emotional Engagement Model™ (SEEM) — a transformative approach that redefined the way professionals and parents support neurodiverse children. Through SEEM, Michele provided tools to help families foster meaningful emotional connections and support sensory processing needs, all while honoring each child’s unique experience of the world. Her approach wasn’t merely clinical; it was profoundly human, infused with empathy, respect, and a deep belief in every child’s inherent worth.
Michele’s dedication extended far beyond her practice. She was a respected voice in the occupational therapy community — an educator, a speaker, and a relentless advocate for better understanding and inclusion. Her workshops, trainings, and writings empowered countless therapists and caregivers to see beyond diagnoses and challenges, focusing instead on connection, engagement, and genuine human interaction.
But to speak only of Michele’s professional achievements would be to miss the heart of who she was.
Michele was a woman of immense kindness, vibrant spirit, and genuine compassion. Friends, colleagues, and families alike speak of her infectious warmth, her tireless energy, and her unwavering commitment to lifting others up. She had a unique gift for making everyone feel seen and valued — whether it was a nervous parent seeking answers or a colleague striving to grow. Her smile was a beacon of encouragement, her words a steady source of hope.
Her sudden passing is not only a loss to her family and friends but to a broader community that Michele served with unmatched passion. The ripples of her work have reached far and wide, transforming lives and reshaping the landscape of pediatric occupational therapy. Though her time was tragically short, the legacy Michele leaves behind is enduring — a legacy of love, empowerment, and boundless dedication to children and families.
As we mourn Michele’s passing, we also celebrate the incredible life she lived and the immeasurable impact she had. Her spirit lives on in the countless children who found their voice, in the parents who found hope, and in the professionals she inspired to carry forward her mission of compassionate care.
To Michele’s family, friends, colleagues, and the many hearts she touched — may you find comfort in knowing that her legacy of love, healing, and humanity will never fade. Michele Parkins leaves behind a world made better by her presence, a legacy that will continue to inspire and empower for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Michele. Your light will forever shine in the lives you so profoundly changed.