Hi! My name is Ainsley Mendoza, and I’m a trained Financial Coach here at Metrocrest Services. Being a trained financial coach allows me the opportunity to support clients as they make a plan and take action towards their financial goals. One of the many things I look forward to is one-on-one coaching sessions with my clients. Coaching sessions are person-centered, meaning we meet the person where they’re at, financially speaking, and let them set the pace for our sessions together.

Let me walk you through what a client’s first financial coaching session looks like!

First, I receive a client referral. Often a client is seeking more than one service at Metrocrest. They typically first visit with either a case manager in our housing department or one of our employment coaches. Case managers and employment coaches share with each client the opportunity to receive financial coaching. If the client expresses an interest in financial coaching, I receive a referral.

Second, I review the client’s information so I’m prepared to meet with them. We have our first session when we find a day and time that meets both my and the client’s schedule. Typically done over Zoom, this session is primarily spent informing the client of my role and defining the expectations for both the client and me. I help the client to understand that I am not here to tell them how or where to spend their money; instead, I am here to be a support and provide information, encouragement, and resources to them. I will also ask that client what they hope to gain from financial coaching and what expectations they have of me. In this session, I work to establish a positive relationship with my client. We end the session by creating a meeting schedule to continue the conversation.

Talking about money is a tough thing to do. It takes a lot of vulnerability, and I meet my clients with dignity and respect because it’s what they deserve. Each follow-up session is individualized to the client. I understand not one method or approach works with everyone, so I ensure I am providing each client with resources and information specific to them.

If you, or someone you know, is interested in learning more about financial coaching, please call (972) 446-2100 and let them know you want to learn more about financial coaching.

About the Author

Ainsley Mendoza, MSW is a case manager and trained financial coach at Metrocrest Services. She received her Master of Social Work degree from Texas Woman’s University and the University of North Texas’ joint program and has worked at Metrocrest Services since 2021. She has a passion for helping people on their journey to financial independence.