Frequently Asked Questions

+ What is a financial coach?

A financial coach helps you create goals and actually stick with them so you’re not just dreaming about financial peace — you’re living it. Financial coaching is different from any other finance-related job. CPAs help you with your taxes. Financial advisors help you with investments. But as your financial coach, I work with you to create a start-to-finish plan for your money and help you stay on track.

I usually work with my clients over several sessions — focusing on anything from fine-tuning your budget to discovering your long-term goals to working through a real financial crisis. No matter the situation, I will sit with you one on one to help you overcome the challenges that hold you back in your finances.

+ When should I work with a financial coach?

That’s the great thing about a financial coach — I can help you in any situation! Maybe you’re up to your eyeballs in student loans or credit card debt, or you’re having money fights with your spouse. Or maybe you have big money goals — like saving to buy a house or setting yourself up for retirement — but no plan to achieve them. Regardless, I will meet you where you are and steer you in the right direction to win with your money.

+ How much does a financial coach cost?

I offer a free consultation to help you assess your readiness for financial coaching. If we choose to work together, I typically charge a flat rate that includes several sessions. My charges vary depending on the complexity of your situation, considering how long we'll need to work together in order to see you achieve your goals. Long story short - I will make a recommendation based on your needs.

+ How do I pay for coaching when I’m broke?

Coaching is meant to put money back in your pocket, not take it out. It’s the best way to help you develop the right money habits and put an end to your money problems. Some people will ask if they can afford it, but maybe you should ask yourself, "Can I afford to not get help from a coach?"

If you’re trying to get out of debt, other options (like credit counseling and bankruptcy) only manage the symptoms. They don’t change the habits that got you there. And the cost of bankruptcy is more than a financial burden — it’s a stain on your personal record.

There’s no better way to establish good money habits than by having a personal money mentor who understands your situation. And sidenote: You should never be ashamed of your financial struggles when working with a coach. I'm here to encourage you. I am a trained professional and I work with people from all walks of life and all ranges of income. Whatever you’re going through, it’s okay.

+ Will you set up a payment plan for my coaching fee?

For a single session, no, mainly because I don’t want to become your creditor. I'm working to get you out of debt, not deeper in it. So I ask that you always pay for any single sessions in full up front.

Depending on your situation, I may offer a 6-Month Coaching Package, where I charge a monthly fee instead of a per-session fee. This package normally incorporates 8-12 sessions. Many times, I also include a subscription to Financial Peace University as part of your Coaching Package. This allows me to refer you to excellent teaching modules that you can complete on your own between sessions with me. The monthly fee varies accordingly.

And remember, I offer my first session completely free.

+ How do I get my spouse on board?

Marriage is not “me” — it’s “we.” Working on your finances together is the only way to succeed when it comes to money. Not only that, many couples find that talking about money actually reduces stress in their marriage. It’s so important, it's one of my core teachings.

If you’re having difficulty getting your spouse on board, let me know, and we will discuss techniques to bring you closer together on the topic of money.

+ How do I prepare for my coaching session?

The great part about working with me as your financial coach is that I’ll guide you through every step of the process. But during your first consultation, I will ask questions to get to know you — your goals, your dreams, your past, your pain points, etc. So be sure to have your answers ready.