Diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at the age of fourteen, Jonathan Chase is an advocate, author, and mentor to young adults on the Autism Spectrum. He has worked in the Autism field since 2008, partnering with agencies, nonprofit organizations, and families to spread a message of understanding and awareness.
Based in Portland, Oregon, Jonathan travels the country as a presenter, teaching about autism awareness, understanding, and how to better support individuals on the spectrum in the home, classroom, and community. His book “From Surviving to Thriving” is a guide to creating a more inclusive classroom through practical accommodations.
With over fifteen years of experience as a professional musician, he brings a unique approach to the world of autism supports. His mentoring services cover a wide range of activities including jazz concerts, Dungeons & Dragons sessions, and an annual summer series of foam sword fighting groups.
I help families see the world through the eyes of individuals on the spectrum. Together, we’ll explore new approaches and new ideas for helping you work toward long-term independence goals.
I worked full-time as a professional musician for over ten years. While my focus today is in the autism field, I continue to work part-time as a sideman with local acts, and I teach music lessons from my home one day each week. I’m primarily an electric bassist, but I also play and teach guitar, and I occasionally perform solo jazz concerts with both instruments. Visit my YouTube channel to see some of my original compositions as well as recordings with other artists.
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.
copyright 2021 – 2026 Jonathan Chase