And Why It Matters for Your Divorce
Recently, a woman called me feeling lost and powerless. She and her husband were in mediation, trying to work through the terms of their divorce. Her husband works in the financial world, so he had a clear grasp of the numbers, the options, and the process. She, on the other hand, was not well equipped to even participate in the conversations. She was unsure if what was being proposed was actually fair—or if she was being taken advantage of.
He kept assuring her that he would “take care of her” financially. But he was also the one having the affair. The one who wanted the divorce. So while his words sounded generous, her gut told her not to trust them.
She needed help—someone to stand beside her and sort through the financial fog. After I explained what I do as a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA®), she hired me on the spot.
Most People Have Never Been Through a Divorce
That’s why it’s completely normal to feel unprepared, confused, or even paralyzed when divorce hits. You’re trying to navigate it all while flying blind with no direction.
I’ve been there myself. I went through my own divorce, and I remember the feeling of not knowing where to turn, what to ask for, or how to protect myself financially. That experience is what led me to become a CDFA.
I knew there had to be a better way.
Now, I help others find that way. And I can tell you this: once you are informed, you become empowered. We all know knowledge is power and after working with a CDFA, you will have that power. When you understand the financial landscape—your income, your assets, your expenses—you make smarter, more confident decisions.
You Can’t Negotiate What You Don’t Understand
I say this often, because it’s true:
If you don’t know what you or your spouse has for income or retirement assets, how can you possibly negotiate something that meets your needs so you’ll be okay after the divorce?
The bottom line is: you can’t. But a CDFA can help you get there.
You don’t have to become a financial expert—you just need the right expert on your team.
What Working with a CDFA Looks Like
Here’s what the process typically involves:
- We start by gathering documentation. This includes tax returns, bank statements, investment accounts, retirement plans, mortgage statements, and anything else that reflects your financial life.
- We build a clear picture of the marital estate. Using that information, I create a property statement of all assets and debts that need to be addressed in the divorce.
- We analyze settlement scenarios. Based on your goals, needs, and your state’s divorce laws, I model different settlement options to help you see what works—and what doesn’t.
- We look at your life after divorce. It’s not just about splitting assets—it’s about understanding what it will cost to run your household and maintain your lifestyle. If a proposed settlement doesn’t meet your needs, we adjust and explore other options.
This process gives you the clarity and insight to make informed decisions—not emotional ones. And don’t worry if it feels daunting, my job is to break it down into manageable pieces so you can move forward with peace of mind.
I Work With You—Every Step of the Way
You’re not just hiring a financial expert. You’re gaining a partner in this process—someone who is laser-focused on making sure your settlement works for you.
I work closely with you to:
- Clarify your financial picture
- Calculate support and property division options
- Prepare for negotiations or mediation
- Provide suggested financial language for your divorce agreement
- Help you transition into life after divorce with a plan
Most importantly, I help you find your voice. I empower you to stand up for what you need, speak with confidence, and make decisions from a place of strength—not fear.
You Deserve to Feel Safe, Informed, and Secure
Divorce doesn’t have to mean financial chaos. It doesn’t have to leave you wondering if you “got taken” or worrying about how you’ll make ends meet.
With the right guidance, you can walk away from this process feeling secure, supported, and ready to build your next chapter.
If you’re in the early stages of divorce—or already deep in it—and you’re feeling unsure, let’s talk. I’ve walked this road myself, and I’ve helped many others find their footing too.
