Do You Need a Financial Advisor, a Couples Therapist, or Both?

At our UB counseling offices in Chicago & North Shore, we are seeing an increase in financial issues causing strain in marriages and relationships. The poor economy has led to unemployment, a decrease in earnings, lower home values, and financial strain for many. This can lead to increased conflict in couples, and can stress preexisting communication and relationship issues.  

UB therapists work with couples to help address financial issues: 

• Create awareness of how family-of-origin impacts financial style
• Assess compulsive or impulsive financial behaviors
• Discover emotional motivations for spending and saving
• Help create financial priorities
• Plan with couples who are merging financial lives
• Understand the importance of being organized and having a system

Addressing the above can improve collaboration on financial issues and prevent relationship meltdown. UB therapists often recommend that couples seek a financial adviser. This person is a financial expert and a neutral, objective third person who can act as a mediator and help the couple create and maintain a financial plan and vision.

According to Bill Laipple, Financial Consultant with GCG Financial  - www.gcgfinancial.net -

"The financial planning process often helps couples come to an agreement and establish a plan to help assure them of financial safety and wellness, and will ultimately enable them to have the life they want together."  

Bill says financial advisers work with couples to:

1. Create a shared vision of your financial life
2. Recognize the need for a plan with structure and achievable goals
3. Learn strategies to help you secure your financial future

The financial investment made in couples counseling and financial planning is more affordable than you might imagine and is money well spent. The time and money invested in these complimentary services can resolve current problems and prevent future conflict, which saves time, money and emotional strain in the long run.