My previous occupation and education as a counselor and therapist frequently comes in handy when we try to help people face some very emotional choices in their lives. Leaving your job and retiring is more than just numbers, it can be a very emotional process for many individuals.

I usually spend several hours a day contacting clients that are in various stages of pre- retirement and retirement. Creating retirement plans and presenting them is a major element. Another several hours is spent researching and fact finding various investments we might use to meet a clients goals, needs for income, and risk tolerance. Sometimes this entails meeting with representatives from investment funds and companies we are currently surveying.

I feel that clients will usually need some education as to the process and should always understand why we recommend certain investments over others. The amount of risk versus reward should always be understood and transparent.

Interfacing with a variety of people who for the most part are embarking on a very exciting stage of their lives. In many cases my clients feel great relief when they do retire, often leaving stressful job situations. Helping people determine if they can retire and then helping them through the process can be very gratifying.