EDITOR
No writer should have to figure out a story alone.
Helping writers develop stronger stories through coaching, developmental editing, and creative collaboration.
Every writer reaches a point where they're simply too close to the work to see it clearly. As your creative partner, I'll help you identify story problems, explore new possibilities, and uncover the strongest version of the story you're trying to tell.
ways we can work together
Whether you're just beginning, revising a draft, or getting ready to send your work into the world, there's a place to begin.
meet your creative partner
Hi, I’m Courtney.
I know how vulnerable it can be to share something you've created. My goal is to create a space where writers feel supported, challenged, and excited about where their story can go next.
Storytelling has been at the center of my career for more than two decades. As a producer, writer, former Netflix copywriter, and story development professional, I've spent my career helping bring stories to life. Helping writers strengthen their own stories has become one of my favorite parts of that journey.
What I bring as your creative partner:
✓ 8+ years helping writers develop stronger stories through coaching and developmental editing
✓ 20+ years in the film industry across 100+ feature films, commercials, and music videos
✓ Award-winning screenwriter developing original IP across multiple genres
✓ A producer's perspective that balances creative storytelling with real-world development
✓ Former Netflix copywriter, creating story-driven campaigns and member experiences
✓ Story Grid Certified Editor, trained in a proven story analysis framework
✓ A collaborative creative partner focused on practical solutions—not just notes
story coaching
EVERY GREAT STORY BEGINS WITH AN IDEA.
Story coaching can help with:
Whether you're starting with a single idea, building an outline, or working through a story problem, we'll work together to create a strong foundation for the story you want to tell.
Developing original concepts
Creating outlines
Building compelling characters
Structuring your story
Brainstorming plot ideas
Before the call:
Once you book a session, you'll have the opportunity to share any relevant materials—whether that's a logline, outline, treatment, or simply a description of your story or where you're feeling stuck. I'll review everything beforehand so we can make the most of our call.
during the call:
Our session is a collaborative conversation focused on moving your story forward. We'll explore ideas, solve story problems, strengthen characters and structure, brainstorm possibilities, or tackle whatever challenges are keeping you from moving forward.
what’s included:
A one-on-one story coaching session over Google Meet
Advance review of the materials you send
Collaborative brainstorming and problem-solving
Honest, constructive creative feedback
Curated reading and film recommendations for your story
Customized resources and story development cheat sheets
A recording of the call
A follow-up summary with key takeaways and next steps
Working through story problems
Strengthening theme
Planning rewrites
Creating outlines
Staying accountable during the writing process
after the call:
You'll leave with clear next steps, actionable ideas, and a better understanding of where your story wants to go. If helpful, I'll also send a brief written recap of key takeaways and recommendations.
pricing:
Story Coaching
60-minute private session — $250
Includes advance review of your materials, a personalized coaching session, follow-up notes, and curated resources tailored to your project.
Already have a completed draft? Explore Story Analysis for in-depth feedback and a personalized roadmap for revision.
story analysis
Every story has the potential to become unforgettable.
story analysis can help with:
You've done the hard part—writing the story. Now it's time to step back and see what's working, what isn't, and where your story can become even stronger. This comprehensive story analysis (developmental edit) includes detailed feedback, a collaborative discussion, and a personalized roadmap for your next revision.
Story structure
Character development and arcs
Pacing and momentum
Stakes and conflict
Theme and emotional impact
Before the call:
You'll send me your completed manuscript, screenplay, short story, or graphic novel, along with any questions or areas you'd like me to focus on. I'll do a comprehensive story analysis, evaluating the elements that matter most—structure, character, pacing, theme, point of view, genre, world-building, and the overall reader experience.
during the call:
We'll spend 90 minutes diving into your story together. I'll walk you through what's working, where your greatest opportunities lie, and—most importantly—why. We'll explore solutions, answer your questions, and create a clear strategy for strengthening your next draft.
what’s included:
A complete read of your screenplay or manuscript
A 90-minute story analysis session via Google Meet
A big-picture editorial analysis of your story's strengths and opportunities
A personalized editorial letter with clear next steps
Two weeks of follow-up email support to answer questions
A recording of our session, available immediately after the call
Curated film and screenplay or book recommendations tailored to your story
Story development resources and cheat sheets selected specifically for your project
Dialogue
World-building
Scene effectiveness
Plot holes and inconsistencies
Overall reader experience
after the call:
You'll receive a personalized editorial letter, curated story resources, and recommendations tailored specifically to your project, along with a recording of our session and two weeks of follow-up email support. My goal is for you to leave with greater clarity, renewed confidence, and a practical roadmap for your next revision.
pricing:
Story Analysis (Developmental Editing)
Novels (up to 80,000 words) — Starting at $2,000
Feature Screenplays (up to 120 pages) — Starting at $650
Short Stories & Graphic Novels — Starting at $500
Final pricing is based on manuscript length, complexity, and project scope.
Working on a TV pilot, novella, treatment, pitch deck, or another type of project? I'd love to hear about it. Reach out for a custom quote.
Still developing your story? Story Coaching offers collaborative support to help you brainstorm, outline, and solve story problems before your draft is complete.
additional editorial services
Need something a little different?
I also offer a variety of specialized editorial services on a project-by-project basis, including:
Copy Editing — grammar, punctuation, clarity, consistency, and polish
Story Treatments & Outlines
Pitch Deck Development
Tell me a little about your project, where you are in the process, and what kind of support you're looking for. I’m happy to talk through what you need and see how I can help.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
“I had published twelve books, so I was looking for a mentor of the highest calibre to advise me on my next Thriller. At every stage I was impressed with Courtney’s insight, analysis, practical suggestions, and attention to detail. Her help, guidance, and enthusiasm was invaluable. My agent loved the final manuscript!”
- Sanjida Kay, Thriller Author of ‘Bone by Bone’.
“Without our unique collaboration, my novel would never have become what it is today. Courtney has an innate capacity for empathetic, validating feedback that is always sincere. One simple question caused me to stop and ponder, to change my views and revise, and then grow my story in ways I hadn’t anticipated.”
- Nicolas Lemieux, Sci-Fi Author
“Courtney has transformed my writing with her truly abundant knowledge of story structure and a genuine enthusiasm that silences even my loudest resistance. She packs our one-hour sessions full of creative ideas no matter how. much or little I write. If you have a story in you somewhere, Courtney will find it and help you tell it.”
- Diana DeBenedetti, Screenwriter