Money is complicated, abstract, and always changing. Abacus Financial Planning acts as a partner to help clients prioritize what they want in life and figure out how to use money to get there.

As a fee-only fiduciary, Abacus Financial Planning provides unbiased expertise. Fee-only means that we are paid only by you, reducing the potential for a conflict of interest. A fiduciary puts the client’s interest first.

Katy Cook, Ph.D., CFP®

Katy Cook is a Principal at Abacus Financial Planning and decided to change careers and go into financial planning after creating her parents’ retirement plan. She saw firsthand the peace of mind that comes with having a roadmap to guide investing and spending decisions. She has also seen how that plan can be tested with health concerns and a global pandemic.

Katy helps women, their families, and anyone historically underserved by the financial industry use money to live the life they want. She enjoys helping people explore financial scenarios and understand the long-term impact of small (and large) choices.

Prior to being a financial planner, Katy spent a decade in teaching and independent consulting focused on “data for do-gooders.” She completed a BS in Mathematics at the University of Texas at Austin and a financial planning certificate with Boston University. She holds a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from Princeton University, where she was a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow.

While teaching, Katy gravitated to the “guide on the side” model of teaching, rather than the “sage on the stage” model. This is a great fit in financial planning, where Katy provides gentle support on the side.

Katy volunteers with non-profit organizations that support children, family health, and education through board and committee work. She previously served in AmeriCorps offering financial support services for people with low income or developmental disabilities. She also served as a volunteer tax preparer, though you can’t pay her enough money to do your taxes.

Katy enjoys spending time with her friends and family, and on weekends, you can find her sorting Lego pieces into 25 categories.