MaryKate Tobin, CFP®

Financial Advisor

Why did you choose financial planning as your profession?

Growing up as one of five children, I had a front-row seat to the remarkable sacrifices and thoughtful choices my parents made to provide us with the best opportunities possible. While their “figure-it-out-as-you-go” approach carried our family forward—powered by relentless hard work and the strength of our close-knit support system—it also opened my eyes early on to the financial stress that can come with chasing big dreams.

That awareness stayed with me. It sparked a curiosity about how families could plan more intentionally for their futures beyond relying on overtime, discretionary income, or debt. This interest led me to pursue finance in college, where a required financial planning course became a turning point. Through a case study, I had the opportunity to “help” a family facing real-world challenges: a single-income household striving to support their daughter’s educational dreams while managing immediate financial needs.

That experience illuminated a path where I could blend my analytical skills with a genuine desire to support families and individuals in achieving their life goals. Today, as a financial advisor, I am dedicated to guiding my clients through life’s complexities with thoughtful, personalized strategies—helping them not just to "figure it out," but to thrive with confidence and clarity.

What are some important things to consider when choosing a financial advisor?

When evaluating a potential financial professional, consider the following questions:

Do They Have My Best Interests in Mind?

The foundation of any strong advisor-client relationship is trust. Look for a financial professional who acts as a fiduciary—this means they are legally and ethically required to put your interests ahead of their own. However, being a fiduciary is more than just a legal standard; it’s about a genuine commitment to understanding your unique circumstances. A great advisor will take the time to learn about your goals, values, risk tolerance, and financial behaviors. They should tailor their recommendations to fit your specific needs, not push generic products or solutions. Lastly, check for professional credentials such as the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP^®) designation, which demonstrates a high standard of education, ethics, and expertise.

Do I Feel Heard and Understood?

Financial planning is deeply personal. Your finances are intertwined with your life’s most important priorities: your family, your health, your dreams, and your peace of mind. A good advisor listens carefully—asking thoughtful questions, respecting your concerns, and making sure you feel comfortable discussing both your aspirations and your anxieties. They should create a safe space for open conversation, where your voice is valued and your input shapes the planning process.

What is Their Planning Process?

A thoughtful advisor will have a clear, structured process for developing and updating your financial plan. Ask how often they review your plan, how they communicate with clients, and what kind of ongoing support you can expect. The right advisor will see financial planning as an ongoing relationship, not a one-time transaction.

Choosing a financial advisor is about more than just numbers—it’s about finding a trusted partner who will help you navigate life’s financial complexities and support you in achieving your most important goals. Trust your instincts—if you feel respected, understood, and empowered, you’re likely in good hands.