Writing is a practice. A practice can be many things: cyclical, experimental, a growing routine, a discipline— familiar and joyous, never finding a finish. Part of my writing practice is to help define and cultivate the writing of others. Whether it be the raw creation of an experimental stage play or the finishing touches on a multi-year novel, I help writers of all types make the type of writing they want, and I coach them in the art of noticing when the writing they’ve made is vibrant, and unique to their voice.

My skills are analytical and empathetic. My coaching practice is based in reading into a text in various ways, questioning that text, and discussing it with the author. I do not work from a formula created to broadly “fix” writing. I don’t think writing should work that way. The strength of writing is with the relationship a reader develops with the text, and questioning the relationships between language and concept existing within that text.

This is all to say, I ask a lot of questions. Our conversation carries forth from that questioning and into more personal writing that keeps the integrity of the individual author’s voice and intentions. I tailor each approach to the individual writer who chooses to work with me, and I orient each of our sessions to the work at hand. Yes, I have lessons and exercises to recommend and apply if desired, and even one hour long diagnostic session can provide valuable insight into how your project is progresssing.

Regardless of how long you choose to seek my services, when you work with me, you will receive the following:

• A deep analysis of your writing and of your writing practice.

• Specific questions about your intentions with the writing along with your choice of voice, plot, characterization, storytelling, and overall writing practice.

• Specific suggestions about the questions I ask your text and the areas with which you struggle.

• Specific feedback that considers your overall practice and where you are at in your process of creating a specific piece.

• Specific consideration of the type of writing you are creating— each piece of writing has its own needs depending on its intentions.

• A comprehensive view of the structure of your piece of writing.