Courses & Workshops

Featured Client Testimonial

(more testimonials here)
"Making the decision to use a writing coach scared me to death. Choosing Jenna took the edges of that fear and opened me up to all kinds of possibility. Not only is Jenna knowledgeable about the craft of writing, she also has a knack for asking the right questions and then giving me the space to answer them no matter how much I ramble. I often hear myself saying things I wasn't aware of knowing!

"When I started coaching sessions with Jenna, I felt deflated about my writing after a negative experience in a university workshop. As I talked to Jenna about all the doubts and fears that experience brought up for me, I felt understood. My time with Jenna has been quite the opposite of that workshop; her suggestions, critique and other direction is honest, empathetic, and respectful. I always come away from a session with her feeling positive and excited about my writing.

"Jenna has helped me with everything from the details that can give a piece of writing its energy to the bigger context that holds those details together. I'm writing about things I never dreamed I could put to paper in a way that was both meaningful and well-written. I'm even considering writing a book – something I've always said I would never do!" (Kimberley McGill, blogger and writer)

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Quick Overview
Here's a snapshot of what I do. Please keep reading for more details.

  • I write essays and articles (and occasionally fiction and poetry). 
  • I provide freelance writing, editing, and coaching services for creative individuals (such as writers, entrepreneurs, artists, and bloggers) and organizations with heart. 
  • I teach and speak on the topics of writing and creativity.

Writing
As a creative writer, I specialize in creative nonfiction. I'm currently writing a collection of essays and have written feature articles on a wide variety of topics. I accept freelance article assignments for online and print publications.

In December 2009 I created and published Lanterns: A Gathering of Stories, a collection of prose, poetry, and photography by seven women.

I also work with organizations, businesses, and entrepreneurs who need a reliable, imaginative, and detail-oriented professional with strong writing and research skills to help them tell their story through web content, blogs, artist statements, newsletters, e-books, project proposals, speeches, video scripts, press releases, and marketing materials.

I welcome writing requests and article ideas. Please contact me for a free consultation.

Coaching
As your writing coach, I'll help you follow your writing dreams and find creative clarity by listening, asking questions, and recommending books, resources, and creative practices. We'll meet via phone or Skype (or in person if you're in the Pittsburgh area). We can discuss anything related to writing or creativity. I'll serve as your sounding board, cheerleader, nurturer, brainstorming partner, and resource. Whether you need one session or ongoing monthly support, let me know how I can help. I can even design a custom package for you. Contact me to find out more.

Editorial Feedback
Feedback doesn't have to be cruel or intimidating! Let me be a set of honest – and supportive – eyes for your writing. Here's how it works: You'll email me your work, I'll review it and then send you written comments on what's working, what could be improved, and suggestions on how to move forward. This service can be combined with coaching. Contact me to find out more.

Editing & Proofreading
Have a project that needs detailed copyediting or proofreading? I can help. I've edited everything from book manuscripts and artist statements to website copy and doctoral dissertations. I'm skilled at seeing both the big picture and the details, which means I can help at any stage of a writing project.

Teaching
I'm available to teach online and in person.

  • I created and teach the curriculum for Alchemy, online writing courses for creative souls. Alchemy: The Art & Craft of Writing is a six-week, in-depth writing course suitable for both beginning and more experienced writers. Alchemy Daily is a 30-day romp of prompts and inspiration meant to juice up your writing practice. Other exciting Alchemy workshops are in the works for 2012, so stay tuned! 
  • In February 2011 I was a writing mentor at Sea Studio: Pen & Paper Retreat, a Be Present Retreat on the Oregon Coast.
  • In August 2011 I was one of three teachers for Emerge, the premiere Live it to the Full online course. Liz Lamoreux, Vivienne McMaster, and I led a month-long course of writing exercises, photography prompts, and mindfulness practices as we explored the beautiful (and sometimes messy!) process of emerging through life's transitions.

Speaking
I'm available for speaking engagements on topics related to writing, creativity, and creative entrepreneurship. My past engagements include being on a Writing Lab panel at the 2010 BlogHer Conference.