Updated: March 14, 2025
A Certified Financial Therapist™ (CFT™) is a professional who integrates financial planning with therapeutic techniques to help individuals and couples address the emotional aspects of their financial lives. This unique approach combines expertise in finance and mental health to improve clients’ relationships with money and alleviate financial stress.
Financial therapists assist clients in exploring their beliefs, emotions, and behaviors related to money. They help uncover underlying issues that may lead to financial challenges, such as overspending, chronic debt, or conflicts over money in relationships. By addressing these psychological factors, clients can develop healthier financial habits and achieve greater financial well-being.
To become a Certified Financial Therapist™, candidates must meet specific educational and experience requirements:
Engaging with a CFT™ can provide several advantages:
You might consider consulting a CFT™ if you experience:
Certified Financial Therapists™ play a crucial role in bridging the gap between financial planning and mental health. By addressing the emotional components of financial decision-making, they empower clients to achieve both financial stability and emotional well-being.
Governing Body: The Certified Financial Therapist™ (CFT™) designation is governed by the Financial Therapy Association (FTA).
What is a Certified Financial Therapist™?
A Certified Financial Therapist™ (CFT™) is a professional trained to integrate financial planning with therapeutic techniques, helping clients address the emotional aspects of their financial lives.
How can a CFT™ help me?
A CFT™ can assist in uncovering and addressing psychological factors that influence financial behaviors, helping you develop healthier money habits and alleviate financial stress.
What qualifications are required to become a Certified Financial Therapist™?
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in a finance-related or mental health-related field, complete specific competency training, acquire relevant experience, pass a comprehensive exam, and adhere to ethical standards set by the Financial Therapy Association.
When should I consider consulting a Certified Financial Therapist™?
Consider consulting a CFT™ if you experience persistent financial stress, money-related conflicts in relationships, or unhealthy financial behaviors such as compulsive spending or chronic debt.
How do I find a Certified Financial Therapist™?
You can locate a Certified Financial Therapist™ through the Financial Therapy Association’s directory, which allows you to search for professionals based on your specific needs and location.
Allan Slider is the Founder of FeeOnlyNetwork.com, a one-of-a-kind digital platform that elevates the visibility of fee-only financial advisors, individually and collectively. Fee-Only advisors are ONLY compensated by the client and NEVER make commission by selling financial products, or receiving kickbacks from brokerage firms. Allan is a consumer & investor advocate and a 20+ year veteran of online marketing for financial advisors.
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