Why Meeting With a Financial Advisor Feels Like a Dentist Appointment (And How We Help Overcome That Fear)

At a conference for financial advisors, a psychologist shared a powerful insight:

“Most people don’t want to meet with a financial advisor because of the anxiety, fear, and stress that it causes them.”

It was a statement that resonated with many in the room. But then, she took it a step further, painting a vivid picture of how the average person perceives a financial planning meeting. She compared it to three universally uncomfortable experiences:

1. A Dentist Appointment

• We don’t want to do it.
• We know it will be awkward and maybe even painful.
• It will cost money, but we force ourselves to go because it prevents bigger problems down the road.

2. Math Class

• For many, math was their least favorite subject in school.
• Meeting with a financial advisor often means seeing more numbers than they’ve seen since high school.
• The idea of working through calculations, projections, and financial models can feel overwhelming.

3. Marriage Counseling

• Talking about money with a spouse can be uncomfortable and lead to arguments.
• Discussing financial struggles in front of another person can feel even worse.
• The fear of judgment or exposing financial mistakes creates even more stress.

Whether you work with a financial advisor or try to manage your finances alone, these comparisons highlight the emotional weight money carries. Many people avoid financial planning because of these fears, pushing it off for another day, month, or even years.

The problem? Avoidance doesn’t make the issue disappear. It only makes it worse.

How We Help Clients Overcome Financial Fear

At Beratung Advisors, we understand that meeting with a financial advisor can feel daunting. But here’s the truth: It doesn’t have to be. We’re here to guide, not judge. To empower, not overwhelm. To simplify, not complicate.

Here’s how we help our clients overcome fear and take control of their financial future:

1. We Make the Process Comfortable & Judgment-Free

We get it—life happens. Maybe you’ve made financial mistakes. Maybe you feel behind. Maybe you’re embarrassed to talk about your situation. That’s okay.

We create a welcoming, judgment-free environment where you can openly discuss your finances without fear. We’ve helped clients in all situations, and our focus is always on the future, not the past.

2. We Speak Your Language—No Overwhelming Jargon

We don’t expect you to be a financial expert—that’s our job. We break down complex financial concepts into simple, clear, and actionable steps. No intimidating industry jargon, just practical guidance you can actually use.

3. We Focus on Your Goals, Not Just Numbers

This isn’t about spreadsheets and stock market predictions. It’s about what you want in life—security, freedom, flexibility, retirement, a legacy for your family. Money is simply the tool to help you get there. We start with your goals and build a financial plan that aligns with what truly matters to you.

4. We Help You and Your Spouse Have Productive Conversations

If discussing money with your spouse feels like an argument waiting to happen, we act as a neutral guide to help facilitate healthy, constructive conversations. We help you both get on the same page, communicate better, and work together toward shared financial goals.

5. We Give You a Clear Plan So You Can Feel Confident

Fear comes from the unknown. We take away the uncertainty by giving you a step-by-step roadmap for your financial future. When you know where you’re headed and how to get there, financial stress fades.

6. We Help You Take Action (Because Small Steps Lead to Big Results)

Many people don’t start financial planning because they think they have to do everything at once. The truth? Small, consistent actions make all the difference. We help you take things one step at a time, at a pace that feels right for you.

You Don’t Have to Fear Financial Planning—We’re Here to Guide You

Yes, meeting with a financial advisor might feel like a dentist appointment, math class, or even marriage counseling at first. But with the right guidance, it can feel more like a roadmap to security and confidence.

At Beratung Advisors, we believe that financial planning shouldn’t be scary. It should be empowering. You don’t have to navigate it alone. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Are you ready to take that first step? Let’s have a conversation—no pressure, no stress, just a chance to help you feel more confident about your future.