“Finances are emotional.” That simple yet powerful phrase captures the heart of our conversation with this week’s Bartelle’s Money Talk guest, John Hankins—a certified financial therapist whose work is changing how we think about money, emotions, and personal transformation.
Many of us were raised to believe that money is just math: earn more, spend less, save wisely. But what if it’s more than that? What if your financial stress isn’t just about a lack of budgeting skills… but about the emotional baggage you’ve been carrying around for decades?
That’s where financial therapy comes in.
What Is Financial Therapy?
As John explained, financial therapy is a hybrid discipline that combines principles of mental health counseling and financial planning to help people change how they think, feel, and act about money.
It’s for people who say:
“I know I shouldn’t spend so much… but I just can’t stop.”
“I have money, but I’m terrified of spending it.”
“My partner and I fight about finances all the time.”
“I feel ashamed of my debt, so I avoid dealing with it.”
Financial therapy isn’t about judgment—it’s about discovery. It helps you uncover your money story, understand your triggers, and move forward with purpose.
John’s Journey: From Tech to Therapy
John didn’t start out in therapy—his career began in social work, pivoted to IT and cloud technology for over 30 years, and then came full circle.
After retiring in 2017, he began volunteering with nonprofits and quickly realized that many leaders were struggling emotionally with managing finances, not just logistically.
“I thought I was doing spreadsheets,” John said, “but I was really doing therapy.”
That realization led him to become a certified financial therapist and reignite his passion for helping people find freedom—not just financial freedom, but emotional freedom from anxiety, shame, and fear around money.
Who Can Benefit from Financial Therapy?
According to John, the answer is simple: almost everyone.
Here are just a few examples:
Spending addictions (especially impulse buying, online shopping)
Chronic debt or overspending despite knowing better
Financial anxiety that affects your health, sleep, or relationships
Couples with ongoing money conflict
Retirees or career-changers struggling with identity and purpose
People raised with scarcity mindsets due to family trauma, poverty, or fear
John shared stories of clients who had plenty of money but couldn’t spend it because they were still living under fear passed down from their grandparents who survived the Great Depression. Others had never told their money story out loud—carrying 20+ years of financial regret, shame, and confusion silently.
Techniques: What Does Financial Therapy Look Like?
It starts with listening.
“Your first job is to listen,” John says. “Many people have never had someone create space to talk about their money story.”Explore your financial past.
How did your parents talk about money? What emotions do you associate with it? Guilt, pride, fear, power?Align values and behavior.
Many financial struggles stem from a misalignment between what you say is important and how you actually spend.Develop practical tools with emotional support.
Unlike a traditional financial advisor, a financial therapist helps you confront the emotional why behind your behavior—while still giving you tools to budget, plan, and move forward.
Reinventing Yourself After Retirement
One of the most inspiring parts of John’s story is how he reinvented himself in his 60s. He retired from IT but felt unfulfilled. That dissatisfaction became the spark for a new mission—helping others heal.
“I had to ask: What do I value? What do I want to do with the rest of my life? I didn’t want to waste these years just chasing comfort or leisure. I wanted meaning.”
Reinvention isn’t easy. John had to go back to school, get re-licensed as a social worker, and take financial therapy exams. But for him, it was worth it.
His advice to others considering a career pivot or personal transformation?
“Figure out what matters to you. Clarify your values. Then pursue a mission that aligns with them—even if it’s scary.”
Retirement Counseling: Finding Meaning Beyond the Paycheck
John also offers retirement counseling—supporting people as they transition from work into their next season of life.
Common struggles include:
“Will I have enough money?”
“Who am I without my title, position, or paycheck?”
“What is my purpose now?”
John helps clients reconnect with who they are beyond what they do. He emphasizes that a meaningful retirement doesn’t require extravagant wealth—it requires clarity of purpose.
“We think retirement success is about cruises and golf clubs,” he said. “But success is about living in alignment with your values.”
How to Find a Financial Therapist
If you—or someone you love—could benefit from financial therapy, here’s how to start:
✅ Visit the Financial Therapy Association
Browse their directory to find certified professionals who match your needs.
✅ Contact John Hankins directly
Website: www.financial-therapy.me
He offers free 20-minute consultations and is happy to answer questions.
✅ Ask for a values-based conversation
Whether you’re drowning in debt or just want more peace of mind, a financial therapist will help you explore the deeper story behind your financial life.
Final Thoughts from Bartel’s Money Talk
At Bartelle’s Financial Coaching, we believe freedom is possible—and it begins by taking the first step. Whether that’s building a budget, tackling debt, or seeking therapy for emotional spending, we’re here to support your journey.
💬 What’s your money story?
Start reflecting on it today. You might be surprised what you find.
Here's what you can expect from Bartelle's Financial Coaching:
Personalized Guidance: We understand that everyone's financial situation is unique. That's why our coaching adapts to your specific circumstances, ensuring that you receive customized advice and strategies tailored to your needs.
Inclusive and Respectful Environment: No matter your background, financial history, or current situation, you are welcomed here. We're committed to creating an inclusive and respectful space where everyone feels valued and supported.
Results-Oriented Approach: We're not just here to provide advice; we're here to help you achieve tangible results. Our coaching focuses on actionable strategies that lead to lasting change, empowering you to take control of your financial future.
Empowerment at the Core: We believe in empowering you with the knowledge and tools you need to make informed decisions and achieve financial success. Our coaching equips you with the skills and confidence to navigate any financial challenge that comes your way.
So whether you're looking to get out of debt, save for a major purchase, or plan for retirement, "Bartelle’s Money Talk" and Bartelle's Financial Coaching are here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to take the first step toward financial freedom? Schedule a free consultation with Theresa Bartelle today and start your journey to a brighter financial future.
Thank you for considering "Bartelle’s Money Talk" and Bartelle's Financial Coaching. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Warm regards,
Johnny and Theresa Bartelle
Founders of Bartelle’s Financial Coaching
Share this post