About Jesse
Jesse Cramer is mentor for neurodivergent children and adults. For 15 years, he has employed a neurodiversity-affirming approach that highlights the abilities of his mentees rather than their deficits. Utilizing the DIR/Floortime model, he has worked in a variety of roles in academic institutions (Hirsch Academy, Lionheart, The Threshold Group fka The Community School, Say Yes Improv) and continues to mentor individuals privately in a 1-on-1 setting. Back in Atlanta after 10 years, Jesse is currently establishing social groups and classes for the community and hopes to open a group transitional home. Jesse combined his passion for education and art with CIRCLES, a short film starring a cast of actors with autism.
In addition to his work with neurodivergent individuals, Jesse is also a writer and producer. As a writer, his plays have been produced in New York City, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, and his most recent film script is currently in development with Before the Door Pictures and Scythia Films. He also co-wrote an episode of MODERN LOVE for Amazon with Dan Savage (“Savage Lovecast”), and the two have also written together for FX. He has also worked with David Shore (HOUSE, THE GOOD DOCTOR), Stu Zicherman (DIVORCE, AMERICAN SPORTS STORY), and Ben Karlin (MODERN FAMILY) and has developed film and television projects with top production companies and networks, including NBC, CBS Studios, Funny or Die, Fremantle, A24, Madica Productions, among others.
CIRCLES
A Cinematic Experiment in Neurodiversity
In 2014, Jesse had an idea to combine his passions for film and neurodiversity with CIRCLES -- a short film starring performers on the autism spectrum. After years of teaching and mentoring, Jesse grew frustrated by the lack of opportunities in entertainment for talented neurodivergent individuals, so he took matters into his own hands knowing actors with autism were the best voices for stories about autism.
With the help of Autism Improvised, Hirsch Academy, and a wide slice of the neurodivergent community in Atlanta, CIRCLES was brought to life. Following one day in the life of Ollie, the film is a heartbreaking tale of friendship and loss, and the circles that break as life churns on. The film premiered at the MAXXI Museum in Rome, Italy, and was developed by Warner Brothers for a series and film.
Watch the film below.
Words from the Community
"Jesse has been working with my son for 5 years. These have been pivotal years in his development and Jesse's consistent engagement and support have been invaluable to my son and our family. During this time, Jesse has helped him navigate challenges (social and personal) and guided him to pursue his passions by supporting his executive functioning and creativity. His strengths-based and empathetic approach allows Jesse to see and understand my son in ways that both support and stretch him. We're so fortunate to have Jesse as a support, mentor, and friend!"
Lesley Wood
Client for 5 years
“Jesse is an incredibly creative and passionate person, with a strong empathetic streak. He’s an ideal collaborator."
Dan Savage
Host of Savage Lovecast & Author
“In the 14 years I have known Jesse Cramer, I have continued to marvel at his compassion, empathy, and professionalism. Jesse is a gifted individual, wise beyond his years, who meets everyone where they are in order to allow them to flourish. He is a pure joy with which to work, bringing his passion and levity to every arena."
Johnna Mitchell
Educator
“We have known Jesse since our 20-year-old was 6. He has been a teacher, a sitter, a mentor, a friend. He meets us in person, on zoom, across coasts, around the corner, and most importantly, "wherever our son is." Whether they are taking classes together (as in, yes, Jesse registered as an art student to take classes alongside our son), unpacking feelings, making cookies, selling things to learn how to make money, making schedules, going on walks... You name it, Jesse can do it. If we could take out insurance on him we would. He is by far the single most important aspect of our son's development and success.”
Amy Handler
Client for 14 years
"This is Jesse's foundation: learning WHO your child is, how they learn and communicate best, what excites and inspires them, what derails them, and why. Working with him is a collaborative dance in real time between support and challenge — wrapped in a fun, meaningful activity or conversation. He has a rare ability to read and understand his clients and knows the path is not linear. He will meet you and your child wherever you are on any given day."