About Me
Pediatric Occupational Therapist
Michelle Nigl-Chang, OTR/L
I’m a pediatric occupational therapist who values connection, collaboration, and individualized care—supporting children and families across the greater Portland, Oregon area with a focus on sensory, developmental, and emotional regulation needs.
I have been practicing occupational therapy for children since earning my degree from the University of Puget Sound in 2001. I began my career in pediatric acute care at OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, where I treated a wide range of patients, performed splinting, and helped launch the special-needs car seat program.
Since 2013, I have been working in outpatient pediatric occupational therapy in Portland, Oregon, supporting children and their families across a broad range of developmental, sensory, emotional regulation, and motor skill needs.
Approach to Care
I value meaningful connection between therapist, child, and caregiver. I believe in taking the time to to build strong, trusting relationships, creating a space where children feel safe, understood, and supported. This foundation fosters open communication and allows deeper growth to unfold over time.
I believe collaboration with families, schools, and other professionals is essential to providing consistent, whole-child support—helping each child generalize skills across environments and carry progress into daily life.
My goal is to help every child find balance, confidence, joy, and success—at home, at school, and in their community.
Professional Training & Expertise
My advanced training supports my work in areas such as:
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Feeding therapy Get Permission Approach®
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Child development & reflex integration
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Fine motor & visual-motor skill building
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Handwriting Without Tears®
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Size Matters Handwriting Program®
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Therapeutic Listening®
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Interoception Curriculum®
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Pediatric splinting
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Certified ADHD Rehabilitation Services Provider (ADHD-RSP) with advanced training in ADHD support, executive functioning, and nervous system regulation
Outside the Clinic
When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband, daughter, two dogs, and young cat. You’ll often find me baking something sweet or exploring the outdoors on a family camping adventure.
Testimonials
Sam F., Parent
My daughter has graduated from Kids N Play, but we are forever thankful for Michelle's services, knowledge, and advocacy. Her guidance and expertise was truly life changing for our family. Her clinic is warm, fun, clean, and friendly, and the homework she gives is catered to your child so you can make the most out of your sessions. Michelle was available to talk and answer questions throughout the week, which helped me so much as we navigated our journey. My daughter loved her time at Kids N Play and I'm happy to say we still keep in touch with Michelle! I'd recommend her to any parent looking for OT services for their child.
Autumn C., Parent
Working with Michelle was a wonderful experience. She expertly adapted her approach and treatment to the needs of the day to work toward our goals. Our son left feeling better and more confident in himself with each session. Cannot recommend her enough.
Rachel E., Parent
Michelle quickly developed excellent rapport with my child. She considers the whole child and her approach has strengthened my child's body as well as skills in multiple domains. Michelle is an incredibly talented occupational therapist and I am so grateful our family found her.
Amber S., Parent
Kids N Play OT is owned and operated by a caring, inquisitive, skilled practitioner that my children and I have worked with for many years. I cannot say enough about her willingness to meet kids and families where they are with compassion and knowledge!