Since the beginning of time, humans have created stories to make sense of the world. As individuals, our lives are shaped by the stories we tell ourselves.

— Dana Schmalenberg

Since the beginning of time, humans have created stories to make sense of the world. As individuals, our lives are shaped by the stories we tell ourselves

— Dana Schmalenberg

Take Authorship of Your Life.

A unique blend of Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques and the Nondual Philosophy to help you on the path towards wholeness.1 Column

I'm Dana Schmalenberg

Founder of Navigational Narratives

Life doesn’t always go according to plan. Sometimes it unravels slowly, through burnout, relationship strain, or that vague sense of “is this it?” Other times, it falls apart all at once.

I help people navigate those turning points, the moments when what used to work, doesn’t anymore, and guide them toward clarity, calm, and a renewed sense of direction.

Before becoming a psychotherapist, I spent over two decades as a Hollywood screenwriter. I know what it means to succeed on paper and still feel lost inside your own story. That experience now informs how I help clients rewrite the narratives that keep them stuck.

My approach is direct, compassionate, and often laced with humor. I draw from Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neuroscience, and Non-Dual Philosophy to help you understand the patterns shaping your life, and create lasting, grounded change.

Whether you’re in a season of grief, burnout, or midlife recalibration, our work together focuses on helping you see yourself clearly, make aligned choices, and live with greater ease.

If you’re ready for meaningful change, the kind that lasts — let’s talk.

Navigating Your DNA Bombshell

Take a self-guided journey with interactive lessons.

1-on-1 Navigating

One on one sessions to help you dive deeper into the course "Navigating Your DNA Bombshell" and deal with your unique circumstances, accelerating your healing.

INTRODUCING MY FIRST COURSE

“Navigating Your DNA Bombshell: From Shell Shock to Secure New Identity”

HI, I’M DANA

After 20 years of professional screenwriting, I decided to become a psychotherapist. I returned to graduate school and received a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health. I possess a unique combination of skills that can help you identify the "life scripts" you've created that may not be working for you and teach you how to "rewrite and rewire" them to take authorship of your life.

Sign up and receive your free guided meditation “Dealing with Intense

Emotions” to help soothe emotional overwhelm.

New courses, updates, free offerings, only what’s supportive. I’ll never spam you!

Copyright © 2025 Navigational Narratives • Site Credits