Diane W. Darling

Hello! I’m Diane Darling, founder of Darling Directions, LLC, and a Ph.D. candidate in Clinical Psychology. My journey has been shaped by a unique blend of experiences—from serving as a Mandarin Cryptologic Language Analyst in the United States Air Force and moving all around the country to conducting research in the bourgening field of financial psychology, to working with folks to learn about their own emotions and behaviors with money. 

Certified as a Certified Financial Therapy Practitioner - Level I™ (CFT-I™), I specialize in helping women and couples under 30, as well as disabled veterans of all ages, navigate the complex interplay between their emotions and finances. My research, most recently on the financial dynamics affecting childfree stepmothers, informs my empathetic and evidence-based approach, ensuring that every client benefits from tailored and insightful guidance. Most importantly, I strive to demystify financial topics, breaking them down into simple, understandable terms, countering the financial industry's tendency to obscure crucial information behind jargon and complex concepts. I staunchly believe that one should not need an expensive degree or family wealth to understand these topics - that's where I come in! 

My commitment to personal growth and learning is a cornerstone of my practice. As I continue my academic endeavors, I remain dedicated to understanding the intricate relationships people have with money, aiming to transform how they perceive and interact with their finances. This commitment is reflected in my client interactions, where I emphasize a blend of academic knowledge and personal experience to foster meaningful change.

Beyond my professional life, I reside in Arizona with my family, where I love to hike, read, and compete in triathlons. 

Join me in exploring how a deeper understanding of your finance-related emotions and financial behaviors can lead to lasting personal and financial well-being!