How Financial Stress Affects Relationships—and What You Can Do About It with Couples Therapy in Riverside, CA

Money isn’t just about numbers—it’s about security, emotions, and relationships. For many couples, financial stress is a major source of tension, sometimes even more than household chores, parenting, or intimacy. Differences in spending habits, financial goals, or past money experiences can create conflicts that, if left unaddressed, can strain even the strongest relationships.

At our practice, we see firsthand how financial anxiety can impact couples. One partner may feel frustrated by a lack of financial planning, while the other avoids money conversations altogether. Some couples struggle with different money mindsets—one might be a saver, the other a spender. These differences don’t have to drive a wedge between you, but they do require open communication and intentional planning.

Building Financial Security Together with Couples Therapy in Murrieta, CA

That’s why we spoke with Chinedu Ofoegbu, a Financial Professional with New York Life, about how couples can build financial security and reduce money-related stress together. His approach to financial planning is all about creating peace of mind so couples can focus on what truly matters—their relationship, their goals, and their future.

“Think about how often putting on a coat before stepping outside has saved you from catching a cold,” Chinedu explains. “That same proactive mindset applies to your finances. Without planning, a ‘financial cold’ could mean running out of money in retirement, struggling to cover a long-term care event, or leaving your family unprepared if something were to happen to you.”

This uncertainty is what fuels financial anxiety. The good news? You don’t need to have everything figured out overnight. Just like couples therapy is about small steps toward emotional growth, financial well-being starts with little habits—checking in on your budget, setting up automatic savings, or having an honest conversation about money with your partner.

How Marriage Counseling in Riverside and Murrieta CA and Financial Planning Can Help Your Relationship

One of the biggest mistakes couples make is avoiding money conversations altogether. Many people were raised in households where finances weren’t openly discussed, which can make it uncomfortable or even scary to talk about money. But ignoring financial issues won’t make them disappear. Instead of waiting until money becomes a source of conflict, Chinedu recommends scheduling regular check-ins. “Think of it like a financial date night,” he says. “Set aside time to talk about your goals, upcoming expenses, and any financial concerns in a low-pressure environment. The more comfortable you get discussing money, the less stressful it becomes.”

If one partner prefers saving while the other enjoys spending, frustration and guilt can build over time. These differences don’t mean a relationship is doomed—they just mean the couple needs to find a middle ground. Chinedu encourages couples to work toward financial transparency and shared goals. “Start by understanding each other’s money mindset,” he suggests. “Maybe one partner grew up in a household where money was scarce, leading them to save aggressively. The other might have had a more comfortable upbringing and sees money as a tool for enjoying life. Neither perspective is wrong—it’s about finding balance.”

A helpful strategy is to set up three types of accounts: a shared account for joint expenses, individual accounts for personal spending, and a savings account for long-term goals like buying a house, traveling, or retirement. This approach allows couples to work toward financial security together while still maintaining independence.

If money stress has been weighing on your relationship, know that you’re not alone. Therapy can help couples navigate financial conflict, improve communication, and build a stronger emotional connection. And when it comes to financial planning, having the right support can make all the difference.

Chinedu offers a free retirement assessment that helps couples understand where they stand financially and what strategies can help them get closer to their goals. “With a precise analysis, you can see down to the dollar how much you need to save and what strategies can help you get there,” he explains. “It takes away the guesswork and helps couples plan from a place of knowledge rather than fear.”

Taking the First Step Toward a Stronger Relationship with Online Couples Counseling in California

Your financial and emotional well-being go hand in hand. Small steps—whether through therapy, financial planning, or both—can help you and your partner create a future that feels secure and fulfilling.

If financial stress is causing tension in your relationship, know that we’re here to help. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation to see how couples therapy can support you in building a stronger foundation—both emotionally and financially.

To connect with Chinedu for financial guidance, you can reach him at:

📞 (202)-679-9735
📧 cofoegbu@ft.newyorklife.com

Quality marriage counseling in Riverside CA, Temecula CA, online couples counseling in California, and couples retreats in California

At Inland Empire Couples Counseling we offer the best marriage counseling we can! Our couples therapists are trained in helping couples heal from infidelity, substance use in relationships, childhood trauma, communication skills, as well as providing the LGBTQIA+ community with pride counseling. We have online couples counseling in California. We have couples therapy in Riverside, CA. We also have marriage counseling in Murrieta CA or the Temecula Valley. For a deeper experience focused on rejuvenation and reconnection, consider booking one of our couples retreats in California. Please reach out for help by clicking the button below to schedule a free 15 minute consultation with our Intake Coordinator.

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