Our Mission
Financial stress is the number one stressor in America today. Left unaddressed, it can trigger anxiety, depression, and unhealthy behaviors that interfere with everyday life. At the Financial Psychology Center, we believe financial wellness is essential to overall mental health. Our work helps clients uncover the emotions and beliefs behind their financial decisions, heal financial anxiety, and build healthier money habits.
Meet the Founder:
Dr. Alex Melkumian
Dr. Alex Melkumian, PsyD, LMFT, is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the founder of the Financial Psychology Center in Los Angeles, California. As a pioneering financial psychologist, he has devoted his career to helping people improve both their financial and mental health.
With a background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Behavioral Finance, and Neuroeconomics, Dr. Alex specializes in helping clients understand their personal “money story” — the unique blend of upbringing, culture, and life experiences that shape their financial behaviors. By identifying and reshaping these patterns, clients can move from fear and avoidance to confidence and financial well-being.
Expertise and Impact
Dr. Alex has worked with individuals, couples, and professional athletes, equipping them with both practical tools and therapeutic strategies. He understands that financial stress doesn’t just affect the wallet — it impacts performance, relationships, and overall quality of life.
For athletes in particular, financial psychology provides a path to greater balance. The intense focus required to excel in sports can create blind spots around money, leading to stress and poor decisions. By addressing these challenges, Dr. Alex helps athletes and high performers align their financial health with their personal and professional goals.
Seen and Quoted In
Dr. Alex is a recognized thought leader frequently featured in the media, where he shares insights on the connection between money, emotions, and behavior. His work has been covered by leading outlets including CNN, The Wall Street Journal, and Fox News.
For a full list of media appearances, visit Dr. Alex on LinkedIn.
Our Approach
At the Financial Psychology Center, we address money not just as numbers, but as a reflection of identity, culture, and emotions. Our integrative approach combines:
- Financial Literacy — practical tools for everyday money management.
- Emotional Awareness — uncovering hidden feelings that drive financial behavior.
- Therapeutic Support — healing financial trauma and anxiety.
- Cultural & Family Influences — understanding the deeper roots of financial stress.
This holistic method empowers clients to replace destructive financial patterns with confidence, balance, and clarity.
Connect with Us
If you’re ready to explore where your money and emotions meet, we invite you to connect with us today. Together, we can help you build financial ease, peace of mind, and lasting wellness.