As people contemplate their own economic straits, the not-so-funny line you often hear these days is: ''O.K., where is my bailout?''

Few of us will ever get the financial breaks now being given to big companies.

As the economy sputters -- and the news of crazy mortgages, escalating foreclosures and personal debt mounts -- there is a need to give millions of Americans something they badly need: financial advice.

The financial world abounds with all types of advisers, of course. Financial planners are a common source of guidance. But most planners are geared toward helping their clients create a long-term strategy for managing their money.

Many charge a flat fee for a financial plan, or take a commission based on the products they sell, like mutual funds or insurance, or they charge a fee based on a percentage of assets under management. Fees frequently run into the thousands of dollars.

Where do you turn if you don't have deep pockets or significant assets, or if you simply need help unraveling more mundane, yet crucial, financial problems, like deciphering the terms of a mortgage, the ins and outs of balance transfers or your 401(k) plan's corporate matching system?

You can take financial education classes. You can read books. But if someone has questions or needs a second opinion before they make a financial decision, they need access to objective, expert advice. Given the current economic situation, there's a greater need than ever before for this kind of service.

Given the ridiculous complexity of financial life, basic advice is needed for every income level.

HELPING people cope with everyday money problems has been a growing concern in our firm, and the economic crisis has made matters only more urgent.

Most people need more than just information and advice to get a grip on their finances. Knowing you need to save for retirement is just the start.

We as financial coach's are willing to walk you through steps like opening a retirement account, understanding your investment options, saving money, getting out of debt, planning for college, etc. The goal is to help people depending on their ability to manage their money.

Lately, it seems as if that could be anybody.

Therefore, if you need help with a variety of financial issues you face today, please call us, or schedule an appointment, and we will advise or direct you to someone who can help.

The best part--we do this free of charge. It is just one small way we can give back.

Wishing you many happy returns,

Dr. Wayne T. Essex