DEBBIE LEAMAN
Writing Coach / Freelance Writer / Developmental Editor
"I can't write," is something people often tell me. My experience as a freelance writer, writing coach, and developmental editor has taught me that everyone can write. Sometimes all we need is a little help.
Getting words on the page is the first, and sometimes the hardest step in the writing process. To me, it's like cleaning out a closet— you don't know what you have until you get it all out. Then, sorting through the piles, you slowly organize it all to figure out what makes sense to keep, what doesn't and what's missing.
I didn't start out as a professional writer, but writing has always been an important part of my life—a fundamental way for me to clarify my thoughts, the path to finding my true inner voice. In my former life, I was a managing director at a Manhattan brokerage firm and a Certified Financial Planner®, but always found time to write. After 20+ years of analyzing mutual funds and reading prospectuses, I finally took the leap and left the financial world to tap into my creative self and pursue a career in writing. My personal essays and articles have been published in local, national and international magazines, as well as in various trade journals and on numerous websites. (Read More...Publications)
Now, passionate about teaching and helping others discover their own voices, I lead a variety of writing workshops for adults. I'm always inspired by the participants, who, through writing, gain insight and learn more about themselves. (Read More...Upcoming Classes)
I’ve been fortunate to train with David Kessler, a renown grief expert, to become a Certified Grief Educator. In a 12-week program, David provided us with his unique methodology, tools and decades of experience to help people navigate the challenges and rocky terrain of grief. In addition, I completed a one-day training on Grief of Overdose Addiction through the University of Utah’s School of Nursing Caring Connections program, as well as Grief of Death by Suicide training. I am very much looking forward to incorporating what I’ve learned from both courses into my Writing Through Grief workshops.
Whether you are a participant in a writing class, or want to make sense of a writing project, I can help you reveal the heart of your work. Through thoughtful listening, coaching and encouragement, I can guide you to dig deeper and help translate your concepts, ideas or experiences and put them into words.