Retirement Without Regret: How Financial Therapy Helps Couples Align Their Retirement Goals

Dr Amanda Craft.

Meet Michael and Susan.

For many couples, retirement is something they’ve worked toward for decades. But when the time comes, different visions can create unexpected conflict.

That was the case for Michael and Susan, a couple in their late 50s. Michael was ready to travel the world, spend freely, and finally enjoy the rewards of a lifetime of hard work. Susan, on the other hand, was worried about running out of money, hesitant to dip into their savings, and wanted a more modest, cautious retirement.

Instead of enjoying their final working years, they were arguing constantly. Discussions about retirement led to stress, resentment, and avoidance. The tension was affecting their sleep, their health, and even their excitement for the future.

This type of conflict is incredibly common—and it’s not just about finances.

The Hidden Costs of Misaligned Retirement Expectations

Before seeking financial therapy, Michael and Susan were experiencing:

❌ Uncertainty and anxiety – Without a clear plan, Susan felt financially insecure, while Michael felt frustrated and restricted.

❌ Relationship strain – Their inability to agree led to avoidance, growing resentment, and disconnection.

❌ Postponed decisions – They delayed retirement planning for two years, missing opportunities for tax efficiencies and investment growth.

❌ Emotional exhaustion – Stress about money was leading to poor sleep, tension headaches, and fatigue.

How Financial Therapy Helped

Most financial planners focus on numbers—how much to save, when to retire, and how to invest. But retirement isn’t just a financial decision—it’s a lifestyle transition, and financial therapy helps couples navigate both the emotional and financial aspects of this major life change.

Through financial therapy, we helped Michael and Susan:

✅ Identify their financial beliefs & fears – Susan realized her fear of spending came from her parents’ struggles in old age, while Michael recognized that his desire to spend was fueled by a fear of missing out.

✅ Bridge communication gaps – We facilitated structured conversations so both partners felt heard, understood, and respected.

✅ Develop a hybrid retirement plan – Instead of an all-or-nothing approach, they agreed on a balanced strategy that combined travel with financial security.

✅ Create a spending roadmap – With a financial plan in place, Susan felt more comfortable spending on experiences, and Michael gained peace of mind knowing they wouldn’t run out of money.

Measurable Outcomes:

1. Retirement Plan Finalized in 6 Months➡ After years of indecision, Michael and Susan had a fully agreed-upon retirement plan in just six months, allowing them to move forward with confidence.

2. Improved Investment Strategy➡ With a clear vision and advice from their financial adviser, they reallocated underutilized savings, providing an additional income.

3. Reduced Financial Anxiety➡ Susan went from daily stress about money to feeling secure and confident, reducing her anxiety-related sleep disturbances by 75%.

4. Strengthened Relationship➡ Instead of avoiding conversations, they now hold monthly financial check-ins and report feeling closer and more aligned than they have in years.

5. Increased Retirement Satisfaction➡ By structuring travel spending within a safe budget, Michael and Susan booked their first dream vacation within three months—without fear of overspending.

The Key Takeaway: Retirement Success Is About More Than Just Numbers

Michael and Susan didn’t need more money—they needed a shared vision and a plan that honored both their values. Financial therapy helped them transform stress into excitement, turning retirement planning into an empowering journey instead of a battle.

Are You and Your Partner Struggling to Align Your Retirement Vision?

If you and your partner have different ideas about retirement, financial therapy can help you create a plan that works for both of you. Reach out to explore how we can guide you toward a harmonious, financially secure, and fulfilling retirement.

📩 Book a financial therapy session today and start your own transformation.

🚀 Schedule your first session here

Disclaimer: The names, details, and financial circumstances in this case study have been changed to protect client privacy. In some instances, multiple client experiences have been combined to illustrate common challenges and the impact of financial therapy. Any similarities to real individuals or situations are purely coincidental. This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or psychological advice.