Just like a fitness coach helps your physical health, a financial coach empowers your future.

When considering your financial future, hiring a financial coach can be a transformative decision. A financial coach serves as a guide, helping you navigate the often complex world of personal finance, and their expertise can lead to significant benefits.

1. Personalized Financial Guidance: Unlike generic financial advice, a financial coach tailors strategies to your unique situation. They assess your current financial status, goals, and challenges, creating a customized plan that aligns with your aspirations—whether that's saving for retirement, buying a home, or paying off debt.

2. Accountability and Motivation: One of the key roles of a financial coach is to hold you accountable. They help you stay on track with your financial goals, providing support and encouragement along the way. This accountability can be crucial in maintaining discipline, especially when faced with temptations to overspend or deviate from your plan.

3. Education and Skill Development: A financial coach doesn't just provide answers; they teach you valuable skills. You’ll learn about budgeting, investing, and managing debt, empowering you to make informed decisions. This education can lead to greater financial literacy, giving you the confidence to handle your finances independently in the future.

4. Stress Reduction: Financial uncertainty can be a significant source of stress. A financial coach helps demystify money management, offering clarity and strategies to reduce anxiety. With a solid plan in place, you can feel more secure in your financial decisions.

In summary, hiring a financial coach can lead to personalized support, accountability, education, and peace of mind. Investing in a coach is an investment in your financial well-being, setting you on a path toward achieving your goals with confidence.

Absolutely! I encourage all my clients to reach out if they have questions or concerns between sessions. Sharing your thoughts helps ensure we’re aligned and focused on what’s most important for you in our next meeting. While email is a great way to communicate, please note that email inquiries will primarily serve as a guide for our upcoming sessions. I will do my best to respond and offer support via email within 24-72 business hours. However, responses are at my discretion, and I may not be able to respond to every inquiry. Rest assured, I’ll address any questions or concerns during our sessions to ensure you’re getting the most value from our time together.

While both financial coaches and financial planners/advisors help individuals manage their finances, the approach, focus, and expertise differ.

• Financial Coach: A financial coach works with clients to improve their financial mindset, build healthy money habits, and achieve personal financial goals. Coaches provide support, accountability, and guidance on budgeting, saving, debt reduction, and setting long-term goals. They focus on empowering clients to make informed financial decisions, without providing specific investment advice or managing assets.
   
• Financial Planner/Advisor: A financial planner or advisor typically provides professional advice on investments, retirement planning, insurance, and estate planning. They may also offer strategies for tax optimization and portfolio management, often with a focus on growing wealth. Financial planners/advisors often have certifications and licenses that allow them to give more detailed, legally regulated advice, including making recommendations for investment products.
   

In short, a financial coach focuses on mindset, behavior, and goal-setting, while a financial planner/advisor typically handles specific investment strategies and long-term financial planning. Both are valuable, depending on where you are in your financial journey.

• Focus on Behavior vs. Technical Knowledge
  • Financial coaches focus on personal development, budgeting, saving, and goal-setting through behavioral finance.
  • CFPs offer technical knowledge on investments, tax strategies, retirement, and estate planning.
• Personalized Support vs. Comprehensive Planning
  • Coaches provide tailored, ongoing support and education without selling products.
  • CFPs offer comprehensive, long-term financial plans, including investment management.
• Cost Considerations
  • Coaches are typically more cost-effective, offering hourly rates or packages.
  • CFPs often charge fees based on assets or flat rates, which can be expensive for ongoing services.
• Flexibility in Services
  • Coaches have flexible services, focusing on specific areas like debt reduction or budgeting.
  • CFPs are bound by regulatory standards and may have less flexibility in approach.
• Accountability and Motivation
  • Coaches provide ongoing accountability and motivation, helping clients stay on track.
  • CFPs focus more on planning and may not offer continuous motivational support.

• Financial Coach: Ideal for behavioral support, motivation, and simple financial management.
• CFP: Best for in-depth investment advice and complex financial planning like investment management and strategies.

Process of Financial Coaching

1. Initial Assessment: The coach assesses the client’s current financial situation and identifies specific goals.
2. Goal Setting: Together, the coach and client set realistic and achievable financial goals.
3. Action Plan Development: The coach develops a tailored action plan that includes strategies for budgeting, saving, and debt management.
4. Ongoing Support: The coach meets regularly with the client to track progress, adjust strategies as needed, and provide accountability.
5. Skill Building: Throughout the coaching process, clients learn essential money management skills that empower them to make informed decisions in the future.

During a financial coaching session, you can expect a supportive and collaborative environment where we focus on your unique financial goals, challenges, and aspirations. Here’s what typically happens:

1. A Safe and Judgment-Free Space: Our sessions are designed to make you feel comfortable discussing your financial situation openly. There’s no shame in where you are right now—only a focus on positive steps forward.
2. Goal Setting & Action Planning: We’ll work together to clarify your goals, whether it’s creating a budget, paying down debt, saving for a big purchase, or improving your money mindset. We’ll create clear, actionable steps that you can take between sessions.
3. Accountability & Support: I'll be there to check in on your progress, answer any questions, and help you stay on track with your financial plan. If obstacles arise, we’ll work together to adjust the plan and keep you moving forward.
4. Practical Tools & Strategies: You’ll leave each session with practical tips and strategies that you can implement immediately. Whether it’s budgeting tools, debt reduction methods, or savings strategies, I’ll provide the resources you need to take charge of your finances.
5. Ongoing Encouragement: Financial coaching isn’t just about numbers; it’s about building confidence and developing healthy financial habits. Expect to feel empowered, motivated, and ready to take control of your financial future!

Each session is designed to meet you where you are and help you move toward the financial freedom and peace of mind you deserve.

Payment is due prior to or at the start of each coaching session. To ensure smooth scheduling and commitment, I kindly ask that payment be made before the session begins. I prefer payment in cash for simplicity, but for your convenience, I also accept payments via Venmo. If you choose Venmo, please let me know ahead of time so I can provide you with the necessary details. Requiring payment upfront helps to ensure that our time together is focused on your financial goals without distraction, while also helping me manage scheduling and availability effectively.

If you'd prefer, you’re welcome to pay for multiple sessions in advance as part of a session plan. However, please note that no refunds will be issued for advanced payments, so I encourage you to consider your commitment before choosing this option. For clients who choose to pay in advance, sessions must be redeemed within 18 months from the date of payment. After that time, any unused sessions may no longer be redeemed, as I want to ensure I can offer the best availability and focus to all clients.

There’s absolutely no pressure to commit to anything long-term, as I charge per session, allowing you the freedom to enjoy lower rates and choose a pace that works best for you.

Benefit of Paying in Advance:

Paying for your sessions in advance offers a few key benefits that can enhance your coaching experience. First, it provides you with a sense of security and commitment to your financial goals, knowing that all sessions are already covered. This allows us to focus entirely on your progress without needing to worry about payments at each meeting.

Additionally, committing to a session plan in advance can help you feel more accountable to yourself and your financial growth. It’s a great way to stay motivated and maintain consistency in your coaching journey. Knowing that you’ve already invested in your future can be a powerful motivator to fully engage in the process and make the most of our time together.

While no refunds are issued for advanced payments, I believe this upfront investment fosters a deeper level of commitment and focus, ultimately helping you achieve your goals more effectively. Plus, you won’t need to worry about payments at each session, which can make the process feel more seamless and less stressful.

Yes! That is a great reason to start financial coaching. 

A financial coach can support you in managing debt by guiding you through the following steps:

1. Assessment of Financial Situation: The coach will work with you to review your financial documents, including bank statements and credit card bills, to help you gain a clear understanding of your current debt levels and spending habits.

2. Creating a Budget: Together, you will draft a budget that addresses necessary expenses while emphasizing the importance of allocating funds toward debt repayment. This process may involve identifying areas where you can reduce unnecessary expenses.

3. Debt Prioritization Strategy: The coach will assist you in analyzing your debts and exploring various repayment strategies. They can help you evaluate options and help you decide what method is best for you in your unique situation. 

4. Restructuring Options: You will discuss potential options for restructuring or consolidating debt, such as considering a home equity loan to pay off higher-interest credit cards. This collaborative approach allows you to weigh the pros and cons based on your unique circumstances.

5. Long-Term Planning: A financial coach will partner with you to establish a long-term plan that includes building an emergency fund and setting future financial goals. This ensures that after addressing immediate debt concerns, you remain focused on sustainable financial health.

6. Accountability and Progress Tracking: The coach will provide ongoing support and encouragement, helping you monitor your progress against your budget and debt repayment goals. This accountability fosters motivation as you work towards achieving your objectives.

By following these steps together, a financial coach can effectively empower you to take control of your debt management journey and make informed decisions that align with your personal financial goals.

No! you do not need to have a specific income to work with a financial coach. Financial coaches can assist individuals at various income levels, helping them improve their financial literacy and manage their finances regardless of their current financial situation.

The frequency of our meetings is based entirely up to the you as a client. Establishing a meeting schedule with a financial coach is crucial for maintaining accountability, tracking progress, and making informed financial decisions. The frequency of meetings can vary based on individual needs, goals, and the complexity of one’s financial situation. 

The financial coaching plan outlined below is simply a recommendation designed to provide structure and consistency for your progress. However, you are under no obligation to adhere to this schedule if it does not fully align with your needs. Should you feel that you would benefit from more frequent coaching, you are welcome to book additional sessions as needed. Conversely, if you feel that less support is required at any point, you have the flexibility to reduce the frequency of sessions. While I will encourage you to choose one of the suggested meeting schedules, you have the freedom to adjust as you see fit. With my pay structure set prior to each session, clients are empowered to determine the pace and level of support that best suits their unique journey, without feeling pressured to follow a set plan. The focus will always be on empowering positive, sustainable change in your life, rather than adding any undue financial burden.

Below is a detailed breakdown of one of Thrive's recommended meeting plans:

Objective: To provide personalized financial guidance through an initial consultation, in-depth pathways session, and monthly follow-up sessions designed to ensure steady progress toward financial goals. After the first four months, meetings will transition to a bi-monthly schedule for ongoing support and evaluation.

1. Free Consultation

• Purpose: Introduce the client to the coaching process, understand their financial goals, and establish the foundation for the coaching relationship.
• Duration: 60 minutes
• Frequency: One-time event
• Format: Virtual or in-person
• Agenda:
  • Overview of the coaching program
  • Discussion of client’s current financial situation
  • Clarification of goals and expectations
  • Next steps in the coaching process

2. Pathways Session

• Purpose: To create a comprehensive financial action plan tailored to the client’s specific needs, goals, and timeline.
• Duration: 2 hours
• Frequency: One-time event, typically scheduled after the consultation
• Format: Virtual or in-person
• Agenda:
  • Deep dive into client’s financial goals and challenges
  • Identification of key action items and priorities
  • Development of a clear financial pathway with measurable milestones
  • Client’s role in executing the plan and expected timelines

3. Monthly Dive-In Sessions

• Purpose: Provide ongoing support, track progress, and make necessary adjustments to the client’s action plan.
• Duration: 60 minutes
• Frequency: Monthly for the first four months
• Format: Virtual or in-person
• Agenda:
  • Review of action plan progress and successes
  • Identification of any obstacles or challenges
  • Financial education tailored to client’s current situation
  • Adjustments to the plan based on changing circumstances or new goals
  • Focus on accountability and reinforcing positive financial habits

4. Every Other Month, Dive-In Sessions

• Purpose: Continue ongoing support and provide guidance as the client enters the second half of the coaching year.
• Duration: 60 minutes
• Frequency: Every other month, beginning in the fifth month through the twelfth month of the first year
• Format: Virtual or in-person
• Agenda:
  • Progress check-in and review of long-term goals
  • Mid-year financial review and adjustment, if necessary
  • Address any emerging financial challenges or opportunities
  • Continued focus on refining financial habits and optimizing the client’s financial trajectory

5. Annual Review Session

• Purpose: To assess the client’s overall progress, celebrate successes, and evaluate whether any further adjustments are needed for the upcoming year.
• Duration: 60-90 minutes
• Frequency: Once per year
• Format: Virtual or in-person
• Agenda:
  • Comprehensive review of client’s financial status
  • Reflection on the year’s achievements and areas of improvement
  • Goal-setting for the upcoming year
  • Refining financial plans based on long-term vision

Note: Between scheduled sessions, clients will have the option to reach out for brief check-ins and support as needed via email.

This meeting plan provides a clear, structured approach to financial coaching, balancing in-depth sessions with regular follow-ups to ensure ongoing progress and accountability.

That’s entirely up to you as a client. The duration of a financial coaching program can vary based on your individual needs and goals, but typically, these programs last anywhere from 3 to 12 months. Some people benefit from a shorter, more intensive program, while others may need longer-term support. It really depends on what you're looking to achieve and how quickly you’re able to make progress. During our “Pathways Session,” we’ll explore several suggested coaching schedules, and you can choose the plan that best suits your needs—or we can customize a schedule that’s tailored just for you.  

In the realm of financial coaching, professionals often establish their fees through hourly rates or package deals, typically ranging from $100 to $300 per hour, or they may offer a flat fee for specific timeframes. I strive to make my services more affordable than many of my peers because I firmly believe that achieving financial freedom should be accessible to individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

Financial coaching can be a great fit for anyone who is ready to take control of their financial life and make positive changes, but it’s especially beneficial for individuals who are:

• Looking to build healthy money habits: If you want to create a budget, get out of debt, or start saving, financial coaching can help you develop a strong foundation.
• Ready to set and achieve financial goals: Whether it's saving for a home, planning for retirement, or reducing stress around money, coaching can help you break down your goals into actionable steps.
• Seeking support and accountability: If you find yourself struggling to stay on track with your finances or need a partner to hold you accountable, a coach can provide the guidance and motivation you need.
• Open to learning and growing: Financial coaching is about empowerment and education. If you’re open to learning new strategies and building a better relationship with money, coaching can offer valuable insights.

However, financial coaching may not be the right fit if you’re seeking specific investment advice or legal/financial advice, as coaches do not manage investments or provide regulated financial planning services. If you’re looking for in-depth investment management or tax planning, a financial advisor or planner may be a better fit.

Ultimately, if you’re ready to take action, embrace positive change, and work toward your financial goals, financial coaching can provide the support and guidance you need to make lasting progress.

When choosing a financial coach, look for someone with relevant coaching experience, a solid understanding of personal finance, and potentially specialized training or certifications. In addition to qualifications, key character qualities include empathy, strong communication skills, accountability, honesty, and patience. A good financial coach should create a supportive, non-judgmental environment while helping you achieve your goals with clarity, encouragement, and integrity. 

We will work together to build a personalized budget that fits your goals, lifestyle, and values. The goal of financial coaching is to guide you through each step, making the process easier and more manageable, while equipping you with the tools and knowledge to take control of your finances. A strong financial coach will empower you with the education, strategies, and skills needed to maintain healthy financial habits long after our sessions are over, ensuring that you’re able to sustain your financial success independently. Ultimately, it’s about helping you feel confident and capable in managing your own financial future.

I completely understand, and I’m happy to accommodate a 1.5-hour session if that works better for you. My rate is $60 per hour, so a 1.5-hour session would be $90. If you'd like, we can structure our time to make sure we focus on the most important areas, so it feels like a productive and valuable conversation. Please feel free to reach out if you have any other questions or would like to schedule a session!

Throughout our coaching sessions, I’ll provide you with a variety of tools and resources to help you manage your finances with confidence. This may include budgeting templates, debt reduction plans, savings trackers, and goal-setting worksheets tailored to your specific situation. I’ll also share educational materials and strategies to help you build a stronger financial mindset, such as articles, videos, or book recommendations. The goal is to give you practical tools that not only support your current needs but also empower you to continue managing your finances effectively long after our sessions are over.

You may find that you no longer need a financial coach when you feel confident and empowered in managing your finances independently. This could be when you’ve successfully reached your financial goals, developed strong budgeting and saving habits, and feel capable of making informed financial decisions on your own. Additionally, if you’re consistently tracking your progress, staying on top of your financial responsibilities, and adapting your plan as needed, you may be ready to continue without ongoing coaching. The ultimate goal is for you to feel empowered to manage your financial future with confidence, knowing that you have the skills and knowledge to maintain your success. However, you’re always welcome to return for periodic check-ins or support if needed. 

After your coaching program ends, you’ll have the tools, strategies, and confidence to continue managing your finances on your own. You’ll have developed the skills to set and achieve new financial goals, maintain healthy money habits, and adapt your financial plan as your life evolves. While the formal coaching sessions may conclude, I’m always available for occasional check-ins or support if you need guidance in the future. Many clients choose to schedule follow-up sessions as needed to ensure they stay on track or to work through any new challenges. The goal is for you to feel empowered and independent, but know that you have ongoing access to support whenever you need it.

I’m always happy to continue working with clients who have transitioned into legacy clients after the coaching program concludes. You can simply book your “Dive In” sessions at a duration that best fits your needs—whether that’s an annual review, quarterly check-ins, monthly support, or something else that works for you.