A personalized writing retreat allows you to focus on your particular needs and goals. In the nurturing environment of Fifth House Lodge you can honor your own creative process through interactive work with Joan and on your own. You will be encouraged to work in intuitive and inventive ways with whatever comes up.

You may be seeking a private introduction to Joan's writing method, general guidance in creative process, help identifying and releasing blocks, and/or assistance with a specific writing project. Coaching with regard to a writing project focuses less on technical aspects such as plot and structure and more on such considerations as whether or not you are flush with your material, what is and is not getting said, where the “juice” is and what feels dead.

Joan’s coaching fee is $75 per hour. A typical multi-day format may include an initial session of 3-4 hours followed by shorter follow-up sessions (1-2 hours) on succeeding days. Lodging in conjunction with a personalized retreat is $80 per night. Accommodations include a private room with desk, private bath and use of the kitchen facilities for storing and preparing your own food. There are grocery stores and restaurants nearby.

Private coaching without an overnight stay is $60 per hour. Coaching by email and telephone is available.

I was so inspired by my weekend with you I came home with a new definition of myself as writer. Thank you for the wonderful space you provided me and the insights and faith you fed me as we worked together... Libby Moore, Freeport, ME

. . . I feel like I got more out of my 24 hours with you than the numerous how-to-write books I've read and all the university-level writers' groups I've belonged to over the past ten years."   ...Steve Day, Wolfeboro, NH