Frequently Asked Questions
What is a financial coach?
Think of a financial coach as a personal trainer for your money. You likely have some things you’d like to strengthen with your finances. Your financial coach listens to you to find out where you are, where you want to be, and what is keeping you from your goals. Your coach then works with you to make sure your values are met as together create a doable plan of action to get you where you want to go.
How are you different from a financial advisor?
I do not do investments or sell products such as insurance.
Why do I need a financial coach when I can just find a budget template for free online or read a book?
You can do those things, and if that works for you, that’s great! Free online resources and books can give good guidance, but it’s general advice. A coach can take a look at your situation, listen to your values, and come up with a personalized plan to help you reach your goals.
Will you make me have a rigid budget where I have to track every dollar?
NO! That just doesn’t work for the vast majority of people. While you will likely need to make some changes to get where you want to go, being overly restrictive will lead to quick burnout and possibly leave you worse off than where you started. Tracking money spent in the past may give you some information about past habits, but we are going to make a plan to spend intentionally in the present and future instead of looking backwards.
Do you help with the emotional side of money, or is this numbers only?
Money decisions can be very emotional, and managing it is something we do for life. It’s so much more than just numbers on a spreadsheet! Past spending habits can easily evoke feelings of guilt and shame and make you feel like you are just bad with money. We are going to make a plan together to overcome that and help you feel good about how you manage your money.
Do you work with couples?
Yes! Likely, you each approach and think about money differently from each other. That’s normal! I can help you get on the same page if you’re not there quite yet. I will honor you as individuals and as a couple to help you meet your goals.