How to Find the Right Christian Financial Counselor

At some point, most of us need help with our money.

Sometimes it’s because we’re overwhelmed with debt. Sometimes it’s because our marriage is strained over finances. Sometimes it’s because we’ve done reasonably well, but we’re not sure we’re being good stewards. And sometimes it’s because we simply want to honor God more faithfully with what He has entrusted to us.

In those moments, Google and budgeting apps can only take you so far. What many Christians really need is wise, biblically grounded counsel from someone who understands both money and discipleship.

That’s where a Christian financial counselor can be incredibly valuable. But not all financial counselors are the same. So how do you find the right one?

1. Begin with clarity about your situation.

Before you start searching, it helps to get clear about why you’re seeking help. Are you trying to get out of debt? Create a plan for the future? Improve communication with your spouse? Become more generous?

You don’t need to have everything figured out. In fact, part of a counselor’s job is to help you clarify your goals. But having some sense of your biggest pain points will help you find someone who is a good fit.

A strong Christian financial counselor won’t just ask about your income and expenses. They’ll ask about your hopes, your fears, your habits, and your spiritual walk. Money issues are rarely just about money.

2. Look for a biblical framework.

Here’s an important reality: plenty of financial professionals are competent, but not all of them are operating from a biblical worldview.

A good Christian financial counselor should naturally talk about stewardship, not ownership. They should be comfortable discussing generosity, contentment, and trust in God—not just returns, credit scores, and net worth.

If someone’s counsel sounds identical to what you’d hear on a secular financial podcast, that’s a red flag. Practical wisdom matters, but it should be shaped by Scripture.

3. Pay attention to training and credentials.

This is where it’s important to look beyond labels.

Many people call themselves “financial counselors,” but they haven’t received specialized training in how to integrate faith and finances. That’s why the Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CERTCFC®) designation is so significant.

A counselor with the CERTCFC® credential has been trained not only in budgeting, debt, and planning, but also in how to apply biblical principles to real-life financial situations. They’ve been equipped to address the heart issues behind money problems, not just the numbers.

In other words, a CERTCFC® is prepared to help you think biblically, not just act practically. That combination is what makes this designation so valuable. You can find a CERTCFC® here.

4. Ask how they work with clients.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions before committing to a counselor. A few good ones include:

• How do you approach financial counseling from a Christian perspective?
• What does a typical counseling process look like?
• How do you handle confidentiality?
• Do you work with individuals, couples, or both?

Be cautious of anyone who promises quick fixes or guarantees results. Faithful financial counseling is usually slow, steady, and focused on long-term transformation.

5. Consider relational fit.

Even with the right training, you still need the right person.

You should feel comfortable being honest about your finances, even the messy parts. The best counselors are gracious, patient, and non-judgmental. They tell the truth, but they do so with compassion.

If you’re married, it’s especially important that both spouses feel respected and heard. Money conversations can be sensitive, and a skilled counselor will navigate that with care.

6. Remember the bigger picture.

At the end of the day, finding the right Christian financial counselor isn’t just about getting your budget in order. It’s about becoming a more faithful steward.

Your money reveals your priorities. It shapes your habits. It affects your relationships. And it has a direct connection to your spiritual life.

That’s why working with a Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CERTCFC®) is such a wise step. You’re not just getting financial advice, you’re getting guidance that takes seriously what God says about money and how He calls us to use it.

If you’ve been hesitant to seek help, don’t be. Getting wise counsel is not a sign of failure; it’s a sign of humility.

Your finances matter to God. And with the right counselor, especially one who holds the CERTCFC® designation, you can make meaningful progress toward financial faithfulness and Kingdom impact.