In her previous professional incarnation, Claire’s work centered around crime. Consequently, she spent a lot of time with folks facing crisis and trauma. She has worked in prisons, courtrooms, and hospitals around the United States. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Binghamton University, a master’s degree from Villanova University in criminal justice, and postgraduate courses in criminal justice from Rutgers University, in addition to a certificate in private investigation from the University of Washington.

After leaving criminal justice work, she served as lead writer and associate editor of a community magazine, and later she was the communications coordinator for a legal nonprofit—before she went completely rogue to focus on creative writing.

Claire is a member of the Editorial Freelance Association and an Amherst Writers & Artists affiliate.

In addition to co-leading Ignite’s workshops, Claire does freelance work, both as an editor and as a writer. She also works with individuals one-on-one as a story coach.

When she’s not living in the land of story, you’ll find her practicing yoga, swimming, or generally being outdoors while traversing the United States with her not-husband of fifteen years in a vintage Toyota—outfitted with rooftop tent. She enjoys debating about such critical, existential concerns as where to get the best gluten-free chicken wings.