What’s the Difference between a Finance Coach and a Finance Advisor?

That’s a really valid question - and one I often get asked.

Both roles help people improve their finances, but how they do it - and what they’re allowed to do - are quite different.

What a Financial Advisor Does

A financial advisor is licensed under the jurisdiction where they practice. They can recommend or sell investment products, create financial plans, and give stock or fund-specific advice.

When I was in investment and private banking in Singapore, I held those licenses and was regulated for the work I did. My clients were typically high-net-worth individuals and institutions, and my job was to advise on products that fit their goals and risk tolerance.

The main focus? Managing portfolios and recommending instruments.

That’s an essential service - but it’s not where everyone needs to begin.

How a Finance Coach Is Different

When I left the banking world 11 years ago to become a stay-home mum, I didn’t know that a new chapter was waiting for me.

Over coffee mornings and community chats, I met people who wanted to make their money work harder but didn’t know where to start.

Some had opened trading accounts but never placed a trade. Others felt embarrassed to ask questions - afraid of sounding “clueless.” And many wanted to feel more confident and informed before talking to a financial advisor or making investment decisions.

That’s when I realized - most people don’t need more products. They need clarity, confidence, and mindset shifts.

So I decided to use my experience to empower instead of advise. I coined a new title for myself - Finance Mindset Coach - a job that didn’t really exist back then.

Why Financial Knowledge Isn’t Enough

Even with access to all the information, tools, and online courses, something still holds many people back.

It’s not ignorance - it’s emotion.

Fear of losing money. Perfectionism - waiting to “know everything” before starting. Lack of confidence - thinking, “I’m just not good with numbers.”

These invisible beliefs quietly stop us from taking action - even when we already know what to do.

That’s why mindset is so powerful. When you shift your money mindset, you don’t just learn the how of investing - you build the courage to finally act on it.

A finance coach helps you bridge that gap - from knowing to doing.

How to Choose the Right Finance Coach for You

Here are a few things to look for:

1. Background & Credibility: Choose someone with both real-world experience and a solid foundation in finance - but who focuses on education, not selling. A credible coach helps you understand your money better, not push products.

2. Coaching Philosophy: Every coach has a different focus - some teach different styles of investing, others emphasize money mindset or personal finance clarity. (Personally, I cover all three areas!) Be clear about what you need, and find a coach whose philosophy aligns with your goals.

3. Coaching Style & Fit: Some coaches are structured and data-driven; others take a more reflective, mindset-based approach. Choose one whose teaching style resonates with how you learn best. The right coach will meet you where you are and guide you forward with clarity and encouragement.

4. Connection & Trust: Money is deeply personal. You’ll be discussing your habits, goals, and possibly your fears. You should feel safe, supported, and respected in your sessions - that emotional trust is essential for meaningful progress. If you’re considering 1-on-1 coaching, I recommend scheduling a short discovery call first. It’s a great way to set expectations and determine whether the coach is the right fit before committing.

5. Results & Testimonials: Look at what past clients say. Did they gain clarity, confidence, or tangible results? Honest testimonials give you a glimpse into what you can expect from the experience.

Bottom Line

A financial advisor helps you build and manage wealth. A finance coach helps you build the knowledge, confidence, and mindset to begin.

Many people - even affluent or high-net-worth individuals - benefit from working with both. The key is knowing where you are in your financial journey.

If you’re still figuring out where to start, want clarity before investing, or need help overcoming fears around money, working with a finance coach can be a powerful first step.

Because when you understand your money story, shift your mindset, and take small, confident actions - you don’t just change your finances. You change your life.

💬 Have you ever considered working with a finance coach? What matters most to you when choosing one?

P.S. You can read real stories from my students and coaching clients here: Your Finance Mind Testimonials.