This paper reviews the differences between financial counseling and financial planning. A model is proposed for determining the client markets for financial counseling and planning. Distinctions in professional services provided and knowledge needed are discussed. The paper concludes that some similarity exists between financial counseling and planning and recommends that some overlap in the curriculum and certification requirements of these professionals be maintained.
Key Words: Counseling, Planning, Certification, Education

1. Virginia B. Langhrehr is an Associate Professor of Marketing, College of Business Administration, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN 46383