Welcome to Two Cents on Love

Welcome to Two Cents on Love

Hi, I’m Melissa — and I’m so glad you’re here.

By day, I work full-time in private practice as a therapist, helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges. Over the years, I’ve discovered something important: one of the most common — and often most stressful — issues couples face isn’t necessarily about love or compatibility. It’s about money.

How we earn it, spend it, save it, and talk about it can either strengthen our connection or quietly chip away at the trust and closeness in a relationship. I’ve seen couples come into my office deeply in love, yet completely out of sync when it came to their finances. I’ve also seen couples who were barely hanging on find renewed hope simply by learning new ways to communicate about money.

And I get it — not just from my work, but from my own life. Early in my relationship, my husband and I didn’t always see eye-to-eye on financial decisions. We had to navigate different habits, expectations, and dreams for the future. I remember feeling frustrated that there weren’t more resources out there that blended practical financial advice with the emotional reality of sharing a life together.

That’s why I started Two Cents on Love.

This blog is a space where I combine my professional experience as a mental health therapist with real-life strategies I’ve tested in my own marriage. Here, you’ll find practical advice, conversation starters, and tools that make “money talks” less intimidating, more productive, and even — dare I say it — enjoyable.

Because here’s the truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing money as a couple. What works for one pair might not work for another. That’s why you can also send me your own questions about your specific situation. Think of it like a modern “Dear Abby” column — I’ll share my thoughts, offer strategies, and you can take what fits your life (and leave the rest).

You’ll also find my favorite free tools and resources here — things I use and recommend to help couples track spending, set shared goals, and reduce the stress that so often surrounds money. Along the way, I’ll share the mindset shifts and strategies I’ve seen help couples not just manage their finances, but deepen their connection.

Whether you’re here to learn, to get personalized advice, or just to find new ways to connect with your partner, welcome. I hope Two Cents on Love becomes your go-to place for inspiration, encouragement, and real-world tips on balancing your hearts and your bank accounts.

Here’s to love and financial harmony,
Melissa