My Work: Financial counselor for those experiencing homelessness or domestic violence.

My Roots: Employee training and knowledge management for the Federal Government- a big jump to where I am now, I know!

My Passion: Empowering people who want to make a better life for themselves.

My Hero: A therapist who has given trainings on Trauma Informed Work–she goes where people need her the most and does the work others won’t do.

My Favorite Quote: It’s only life after all (Indigo Girls)

My Favorite Personal Finance Tool/Resource: A compounding interest calculator– while not relevant with most of my current clients, nothing is more amazing than the miracle of compounding interest!

My Advice:

  • To Someone Considering Becoming a Financial Counselor/Coach: You never know where this journey will take you– do it!
  • To Someone Going Through the AFC Program: Stay open to what kinds of clients you will serve.
  • To Someone Beginning the Journey of Financial Education/Wellness: You will be surprised by how empowering it feels to get control of your finances.

My Way of “Meeting People Where They Are”: No matter what items are on the agenda, I always leave space to address what’s bothering my clients in that moment.

My Question for Colleagues/Peers: How do you help client past hurdles that manifest as financial troubles, but are more personal issues?

April 26, 2018

Julie Duszak, AFC®
Doorways for Women & Families

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