Autism Ontario
Jane McLaren is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in music therapy, education, and animal-assisted therapy. Currently serving as a Youth Transition Specialist at Autism Ontario and as the Owner and Certified Canine Massage Therapist at Canine Basics, Jane oversees therapy dog programs and provides animal-assisted visitation and therapy. With a robust background as a music therapist and instructor at CANTABILE Music Studio, Jane has developed various interventions for individuals and established significant contracts with multiple agencies for music therapy services. Jane's previous roles include Executive Director at The Hub for Beyond 21 Foundation, Project Manager at Tri County Literacy Council, and Rights Advisor for Psychiatric Patient Advocacy of Ontario. An accomplished research consultant, Jane has facilitated important community studies and grant writing efforts. Jane holds a Master of Music in Music Therapy from Western Michigan University and a Bachelor of Music in Education from the University of Ottawa.
Autism Ontario
Autism Ontario (legally incorporated as Autism Society Ontario) is a charitable organization with a history of over 50 years representing the thousands of people on the autism spectrum and their families across Ontario. Made up of knowledgeable parents, professionals, and autistic self-advocates who can speak to the key issues that impact autistic individuals and their families, Autism Ontario is the province’s leading source of information and referral on autism, and one of the largest collective voices representing the autism community. There are seven regions across the province of Ontario.