Financial Therapy for Financial Independence
in California

Financial Independence (FI) generally refers to a state in which an individual or household has accumulated enough wealth and financial resources to sustain their desired lifestyle without being dependent on employment or traditional sources of income. In other words, financially independent people have the means to cover their living expenses and achieve their financial goals without having to rely on a regular job or paycheck.


Key Principles of Financial Independence

  • Achieving financial independence often involves building up savings and investments that can generate passive income. This can come from various sources, such as investments in stocks, bonds, real estate, or other income-generating assets.

  • Financial independence is easier to attain when there is little to no debt, as debt can be a significant financial burden that requires ongoing income to service. Managing and reducing debt is a common goal for those pursuing FI.

  • Financially independent individuals often practice frugality and conscious spending. This involves making intentional choices about spending and avoiding unnecessary expenses to maximize savings and investment opportunities.

  • Passive income is money earned with minimal effort on the part of the recipient. This can include dividends from investments, rental income from real estate, or other forms of income that don't require active involvement in a job.

  • Financial independence is closely linked to retirement planning. Individuals pursuing FI often aim to accumulate enough assets to retire early or have the option to work on their terms.

  • Maintaining an emergency fund is crucial for financial independence. It provides a safety net for unexpected expenses or changes in income, allowing individuals to weather financial storms without derailing their long-term plans.


Client Scenarios

Here are examples of clients seeking financial independence who would benefit from Financial Therapy.

Denny

Denny is in his late 20s and has been working for approximately 10 years for a company with a vested pension plan. He also contributes to a separate 401k. He is single and is 7 years into his 30-year mortgage. He has recently been hearing about Financial Independence, specifically, early retirement, and is wondering how this could apply to him.


Bonnie

Bonnie is in her late 30s. She has about $16,000 left on her student loan. She has been paying down her loan over the last 10 years as it had low interest rates.  Her annual income is $80,000. She had a house but sold it as she moved to geographical areas. She has money available for a down payment and has some in retirement but she would like to explore financial freedom. At present, she feels overwhelmed, anxious, and unsure of how to successfully steer her financial life path.


Financial Independence Financial Therapy in California

Koru Financial Therapy can help achieve Financial Independence

Koru Financial Therapy combines financial advice with therapeutic techniques to help individuals and couples navigate their relationship with money. It can be a valuable resource for those seeking financial independence by addressing the practical and emotional aspects of money management. Here are ways in which Koru Financial Therapy can contribute to the journey toward financial independence:

  • Koru Financial Therapy helps individuals explore their beliefs and attitudes toward money that may be impacting their financial decisions. This self-awareness is crucial for making positive changes in financial behaviors.

    Koru Financial Therapy helps you define why you want to pursue financial independence. Often clients present who are stuck, who are questioning their current lifestyle choices, are tired of the perception of "keeping up with the Jones", feel exhausted from the grind, and have lost a sense of connection with themselves, their family, their values, and/or their community.

  • Pursuing financial independence can be daunting as it is a pathway not followed by the majority of our society. Most people have not been educated on how to take this path less followed, and may feel financially illiterate. Pursuing FI can also be stressful, especially when dealing with uncertainties or setbacks.

    Koru Financial Therapy provides tools and strategies to empower you on your path, increase your financial literacy as well as help you manage stress and anxiety related to money, helping individuals and couples stay focused on their long-term goals.

  • Financial Therapy can be beneficial for couples working toward financial independence. Koru Financial Therapy helps facilitate open and honest communication about money matters, helping couples align their financial goals and navigate potential conflicts.

  • Koru Financial Therapists assist individuals in setting realistic and achievable financial goals. They help clients prioritize these goals based on their values and long-term aspirations, creating a roadmap for financial independence.

  • Koru Financial Therapists work with individuals to create personalized budgets and financial plans. This includes assessing income, expenses, and savings goals. A well-crafted budget is a critical tool for those aiming for financial independence.

  • Koru Financial Therapy addresses obstacles that may hinder progress toward financial independence, such as debt, overspending, or a lack of financial literacy. Therapists provide guidance and support in overcoming these challenges.

  • Koru Financial Therapists help clients implement positive financial behaviors and hold them accountable for their actions. This can be particularly helpful in breaking harmful financial habits and establishing new, healthier patterns.

  • Life changes, such as marriage, divorce, job loss, or the birth of a child, can have significant financial implications. Koru Financial Therapy assists individuals in navigating these transitions and making informed financial decisions.

  • Koru Financial Therapy aims to foster a healthy relationship with money, promoting financial wellbeing beyond just the pursuit of financial independence. This includes developing a positive mindset, reducing financial shame or guilt, and cultivating financial resilience.

Contact Us

Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
10am–6pm

Phone
(916) 234-6733

mariah@korufinancialtherapy.com

Calls or emails will be returned within 24 hours during business days.

Services

  • In-person

  • Nature

  • Walk & Talk Therapy

  • Online