Certified Coaching Skills Enhance Financial Planning
Financial advisors are increasingly turning to certified coaching skills to better address the behavioral and emotional aspects of wealth management. The Sage Financial Solutions-led 'accredited personal finance coach' (APFC) designation, among others like the 'financial fitness coach' (FFC), is gaining traction as a way for planners to deepen their understanding of client psychology beyond traditional investment strategies. The CFP Board has recognized this trend by approving up to 500 hours of APFC training toward the 6,000-hour requirement needed for the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. This reflects growing awareness that clients often seek peace of mind and behavioral guidance as much—if not more—than investment returns. Saundra Davis, founder of Sage and director at Golden Gate University's financial planning programs, emphasizes how coaching skills can help advisors serve a broader range of clients across different life stages and wealth levels. This approach is seen as complementary to traditional financial advice models.
Topics: Behavioral Finance Certified Coaching CFP Board Sage Financial Solutions