I came to writing as a way of overcoming shame.
My Story.
I was eight years old the first time I pulled out a hair. Trichotillomania, or compulsive hair pulling, affects 13 million Americans. It’s more common than schizophrenia and bipolar. And yet, for years, I believed I was the only one. I pursued a double life: externally composed, internally broken. I isolated myself, terrified of discovery. In my early 20s, I took a writing class in Boston where I met other writers who carried secrets. As I watched them write their stories in brave, vulnerable ways, I thought: If they could do it, why not me?
My story was recently featured on the award-winning “2 Lives” podcast.
You can listen here!
My story was recently featured on the award-winning “2 Lives” podcast.
You can listen here!
Writing our stories allows us to heal – and inspires others to do the same.
I spent a year drafting my memoir manuscript, the most healing experience of my life. I went on to graduate from GrubStreet’s Memoir Incubator and earned an MFA in Creative Nonfiction from Emerson College. I currently teach writing at GrubStreet and Creative Nonfiction Magazine, and have published essays in The Rumpus, ELLE Magazine, Newsweek, and Narratively, among others. The most rewarding part of my journey has been hearing from readers touched by my story, and forging connections that transcend the page.
My passion is helping writers like you bring your own vulnerable stories to life.
As a coach and developmental editor, I view writing vulnerably as a challenge, as well as an opportunity. The more vulnerable we are on the page, the more we invite readers to be vulnerable, too.
This happens in three stages. First, we “dig” in by getting words down and making a mess on the page. Next, we “shape” the story by applying craft techniques like structure, voice, narration, character development, and world-building. Finally, we “share” our work by packaging and pitching it for publication.
My job is to guide you through this journey, empowering you with the feedback, craft knowledge, and motivation to meet your goals.
“Katie's broad understanding of the craft necessary in literary and journalistic endeavors is remarkable.”
- Carroll S
“Katie's broad understanding of the craft necessary in literary and journalistic endeavors is remarkable.”
- Carroll S
Want to learn more about how we can partner together?
Click here to find out about my coaching and developmental editing.