Jonathan chase
Speaker/Trainer
Autism Advocate
Author & Musician
Meet Jonathan Chase
Jonathan Chase is a professional speaker, mentor, and autism consultant based in Portland, Oregon.
Diagnosed with autism at the age of 14, and having worked in the autism field as a professional for over 15 years, he has a wide range of experience in supporting people across the autism spectrum. As a support worker, he spent many years one-on-one with neurodiverse clients, supporting them with activities of daily living, social integration, and reaching their goals in relationships, employment, and independence.
His work as a mentor includes creative pursuits designed to engage individuals around their areas of interest, to connect with them on a personal level. His “professional nerd” approach has supported many clients with Dungeons & Dragons groups, Magic Card tournaments, and even developing a unique system of foam sword LARP events designed to accommodate autistic players.
Jonathan also spent over 25 years as a professional musician, playing with dozens of bands throughout the Pacific Northwest. His experience as a musician gave him valuable insight into how to support others as they pursue their own careers in the arts, or navigate the challenges of other non-traditional vocations.
As a speaker, Jonathan’s presentations offer a mix of personal stories from his life with practical tools that can be put into action right away. He approaches each presentation with the mindset of a jazz musician: every performance is unique and shaped by the audience.
Jonathan is a published author, TEDx Speaker, and has presented at schools, conferences, and businesses across the country.
PRESENTATIONS
TEDx Ted Talk
Music as a window into the Autistic mind
This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Have you ever wondered what it is like to live with autism?
Autism Advocate
Speaker
Consultant
Musician
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Drawing on a lifetime of personal experience, I use storytelling, live music, and visual tools to present creative answers for common concerns to a wide range of audiences—from parents and service providers to educators and individuals on the autism spectrum.
FOR EDUCATORS
FOR PARENTS
FOR PROFESSIONALS
From Surviving
to Thriving
Written by Jonathan Chase
From Surviving to Thriving: Classroom Accommodations for Students on the Autism Spectrum, is available in both print and digital formats on Amazon.
This book is written for educators at every level and for every type of classroom to help them better support and integrate students on the autism spectrum. Each chapter lays out a key accommodation, shows why it works, and how to implement it in your own classroom.
Topics include transition, schedules, communication, and common challenges around group projects.
Bulk purchase options are available for schools or agencies who wish to provide copies to their staff. Reach out directly for more information on these options.
