How Financial Abuse Begins and Why It’s Often Missed

Financial abuse often begins quietly, with small patterns of control that slowly reshape someone’s financial agency.

In part one of this two-part episode, Joy Slabaugh, CFP® and I explore what financial abuse is, how it shows up in relationships, and what advisors and families should be listening for.

Key Takeaways

🔹 Financial abuse is about control, using money to limit another person’s autonomy.

🔹 It often begins subtly and develops gradually over time.

🔹 Many abusive relationships involve multiple forms of abuse simultaneously.

🔹 Advisors should look for patterns, language, and imbalance in shared decision-making.

🔹 In couples, listen for shared ownership and whether both voices are heard.

🔹 It exists on a spectrum, from account restriction to hidden assets and coercion.

🔹 Intergenerational financial control can carry harmful “strings”.

🔹 Financial abuse can exist at any income level and in any type of relationship.

📊 By the Numbers

• 1 in 5 men and 1 in 7 women experience financial abuse in their lifetime.
• 14% report currently experiencing financial abuse.

Tony’s Take: Financial readiness includes recognizing coercion, imbalance, and control in money relationships. Listening carefully may be one of the most important skills advisors develop.

Connect withJoy Slabaugh, CFP®:

• Website: https://joyslabaugh.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joyslabaugh/

Bio: 

Joy Slabaugh is a Certified Financial Planner™ professional, licensed therapist, and educator specializing in the psychological and relational dynamics of wealth. With advanced degrees in taxation and mental health counseling, she bridges the gap between financial strategy and human connection, helping high-net-worth individuals, couples, and financial advisors navigate the complexities of wealth with greater clarity, purpose, and impact.

Joy’s expertise spans wealth management, behavioral finance, and advisor training, equipping financial professionals with the relational skills needed to build trust and deepen client relationships. She also works directly with ultra-high-net-worth individuals, guiding them through the emotional and identity challenges that often accompany significant wealth.

A sought-after speaker, consultant, and industry thought leader, Joy has worked with top financial firms and private clients, reshaping the way people think about money beyond numbers. Her work challenges the traditional wealth narrative, offering a more human, values-driven approach to financial decision-making. Whether through keynote talks, advisor coaching, or client consulting, Joy empowers people to align wealth with impact, ensuring their financial success creates lasting fulfillment and meaningful change.