Sometimes the hardest part of writing isn't the writing.

Writing is one thing. The writing process is another.

If you're feeling stuck — whether that's writer's block, a stalled project, or just a process that isn't working — coaching can help you identify what's holding you back and build a path forward.

Is coaching right for you?

Coaching works best for scientists, clinicians, and medical communicators who are ready to look honestly at their writing process and make real changes. You're likely a good fit if you:

  • Want practical, actionable strategies for managing the writing process

  • Are open to honest feedback and trying new approaches

  • Have a specific project, bottleneck, or goal you’re ready to tackle

  • Are committed to doing the work between sessions

Headshot of T A McDonald wearing a green shirt


“Crystal is simply amazing! . . .Crystal takes time to really understand what my work accomplishes, what I am trying to say, and what I am struggling with in the writing process. She uses this information to help me identify solutions that address my specific situation. . . I cannot recommend her enough!”

T A M McDonald, PhD • Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Our Commitment

When you work with us, you'll have a partner who is invested in your progress. We'll listen carefully, ask the right questions, and give you honest, practical guidance — so that every session moves you in the direction you want.

What we can work on together

Build a sustainable writing process

  • Develop a writing strategy that fits your goals and schedule

  • Stay accountable and overcome procrastination and perfectionism

  • Work through challenges that are stalling your progress

Clarify your thinking and approach

  • Identify the core idea and narrative arc of your paper

  • Get perspective when you're too close to the material to see it clearly

  • Get guidance on authorship decisions and journal selection

Navigate the publication process

  • Understand how manuscript publishing works

  • Respond constructively to rejection and reviewers' critiques

  • Overcome obstacles in the review and revision process

Find the right fit

Power Hour

A focused session to untangle a specific challenge — whether you're stuck on a manuscript, unsure of how to respond to reviewers, or need to brainstorm a strategy.

  • 60-minute session

  • Summary of challenges, discoveries, and action items

  • Follow-up accountability check-in

$200 

Clarity Catalyst

Three sessions to gain clarity and build momentum — ideal if you want sustained support, continuity between sessions, and a dedicated partner to help you push your work across the finish line.

  • 3 weekly 45-minute sessions

  • Summaries of challenges, discoveries, and action items

  • Accountability between sessions to build on progress

$550

Crystal Herron sitting in a wood chair in front of a redwood tree

Hi, I’m Crystal.

I'm a former biomedical scientist and clinical researcher who — like many of you — did not get adequate writing training in graduate school. That experience shapes everything I do as a coach, editor, and communication strategist.

I've spent more than 15 years editing scientific and medical writing and more than 25 years teaching it. I've worked with thousands of researchers, clinicians, and medical communicators across the health sciences — and I've seen firsthand how much the writing process can get in the way of accomplishing your writing goals.

But here's what actually matters: I know what it feels like to struggle with the writing process and manage multiple ongoing projects with a demanding schedule. And that struggle isn't a reflection of ability — it's a reflection of competing priorities and demanding clinical, research, and teaching schedules.

Together, we can zoom out to see the bigger picture, zoom in to pinpoint exactly what’s getting in your way, and find the right strategy to move forward.

What our coaching clients say

  • “It helps me quite a bit to see it organized and more streamlined. I truly enjoyed meeting you and your kind, focused, energy which both helps people be at ease and is accurate in tracking their thoughts, goals, and guiding into next steps.”

    PhD • University of San Francisco

  • “I really appreciated the clarity you helped me reaching in terms of what are structural things I can create to tackle my writing projects.”

    EdD • University of San Francisco

Ready to build momentum in your writing?