Healing the Hidden Wounds Behind Our Wallets

My first significant memory dealing with money was when I was about ten. I was sent to the corner store to buy a few items for the house—I think they were a bag of salt and a stick of butter. I purchased the items but completely forgot to bring back the change.

When I got home, my mom insisted I return to the store and ask for it. As I approached, the shop owner said, "You forgot your change!" 

I am sure I had undiagnosed ADHD because I appeared forgetful. But this incident made me vigilant about ensuring I get change back each time I offered cash - that was before debit cards! 

Your early childhood memories around money could have left deeper scars: you could have experienced money trauma. And with it, the shame many of us carry from childhood that silently shapes our financial lives.

Do you find yourself spending your money immediately after you get paid, or do you experience a feeling of inadequacy regarding money? You could have experienced money trauma.

What is Money Trauma?

Money trauma isn't just about living through poverty or bankruptcy. It can stem from more subtle experiences—like growing up in a household where money was a source of fear, conflict, or secrecy.

Perhaps you were constantly told, “We can’t afford that,” or you watched your parents argue about bills behind closed doors.

These early messages can quietly evolve into adult patterns that drive anxiety, avoidance, overspending, or even self-sabotage.

Signs You Might Be Carrying Money PTSD:

• 😣 Panic or shame when checking your bank account

• 📉 Avoiding financial tasks (even ones you know are important)

• 💳 Spending impulsively to soothe stress or feel ‘good enough’

• 🚫 Feeling paralyzed when making financial decisions

• 💬 Difficulty talking openly about money—even with loved ones

• 🧍‍♀️ A persistent belief that you’re “bad with money” or unworthy of wealth

These are not personal failings. They're survival strategies we learned to cope with a lack of safety, control, or clarity around money growing up.

The Good News?

Trauma is not a life sentence. Becoming aware of your inherited “money story” is the first step to rewriting it. Healing is possible—and it's transformative — through therapy, 

You are not broken. You’re just carrying stories that were never yours to begin with.

If this resonates with you, I’d love to support your financial journey in a way that feels human, not just helpful. Healing your finances is more than spreadsheets—it’s about reclaiming your peace.

Sign up for our four-session The Intergenerational Money Reset.

And start building wealth with wisdom and compassion.