Simonne Gnessen

I’ve been a financial coach for over 23 years, helping individuals and couples build a calmer, more confident and empowered relationship with money. My work involves helping clients navigate the practical side of their financial lives, but it can also go beyond that - supporting people to shift what’s going on beneath the surface too. Before founding Wise Monkey Financial Coaching in 2002, I spent 10 years as a regulated financial adviser. Over time, I became disillusioned with how the industry often focused on selling products or serving only those who already had wealth. I wanted to offer something different: a space where people could talk openly and be met wherever they are - without judgement, jargon, assumptions or the sale of products. That decision led me to create the UK’s first financial coaching practice. Since then, I’ve supported a diverse and extensive range of clients - from those navigating long-standing patterns around money to others facing major life transitions, sudden wealth, or periods of financial anxiety and overwhelm. The breadth of that experience continues to be one of the most enriching aspects of my work, shaping how I show up for every new client. I still enjoy helping clients get to grips with the detail, understand their situation, and build confidence with practical tools and strategies, but what I offer goes beyond spreadsheets and financial plans - it’s about exploring the emotional and behavioural side of finances, shifting unhelpful patterns, and making lasting changes that support the life someone truly wants to lead. I also train and mentor financial coaches through the Wise Monkey Financial Coach Practitioner Certificate - now a widely recognised route into the profession. What sets this work apart is the depth it can reach. While many advisers - and even some coaches - stay at the surface, offering practical tools, guidance or planning, I believe real transformation comes from going deeper. When people feel seen and supported, they often uncover long-held beliefs, patterns or fears that have shaped their financial lives for years. Creating space to explore those things can be powerful, healing, and genuinely life-changing. I’m proud to be part of a growing movement that’s reshaping the way we support people with money. Whether I’m working one-to-one with a client, or training others, I remain passionate about offering a service that’s grounded, accessible, and always led by what each client truly needs. Outside of work, I’m lucky enough to live near both the sea and the South Downs. I love the surrounding nature and enjoy nothing more than long walks and chats with friends - or the occasional all-weather dip in the sea.