Offered by James Maguire, MST, MA
Tax Professional | Strengths-Based Counselor
A Realistic Path to College—Without Losing Your Mind or Your Wallet
As both a tax professional and a trained counselor, I offer something unique in the college planning space: a strategic approach that integrates financial planning, admissions coaching, and personal development. I’ve worked with hundreds of families over the years—some energized, some overwhelmed, and most unsure where to start. This service was built to make sure you’re not walking this path alone.
This isn’t just about filing the FAFSA or guessing which schools to apply to. It’s about creating a plan that honors your financial reality and your student’s potential. Whether your child dreams of Cornell or just wants a place they’ll feel excited to be, we’ll build a plan that makes college possible—emotionally and financially.
Why Start Now?
Timing matters. I regularly analyze tax returns, business income, and household assets to help families position themselves to qualify for as much aid as possible—whether need-based, merit-based, or both. That process works best when we start early. With enough runway, we can implement strategies that reduce adjusted gross income (AGI), optimize retirement contributions, manage distributions from S-Corps or trusts, and minimize asset exposure.
Waiting until senior year limits these options. Starting a year or two out allows us to:
- Structure income and investments more effectively
- Explore advanced financial strategies (SEP IRA, 401(k) loans, equity reallocations)
- Shape a stronger admissions story through intentional extracurricular and academic decisions
- Position your student to submit stronger test scores and essays
- Reduce stress—for everyone involved
Helping Students Find Their Voice
Let’s be honest: in today’s admissions climate, colleges are overwhelmed by applications and hyperfocused on metrics. GPA, test scores, and income figures matter—but what makes a student stand out is their story. And many students don’t know how to tell it.
That’s where I come in.
Using motivational interviewing and a strengths-based approach, I meet with your student and help them go from “I don’t know” to “Here’s what excites me.” Even reluctant teens tend to walk away from this process with more clarity and confidence—some even see improvement in their academics and motivation at school as a result.
Together, we’ll explore:
- What truly matters to your student (even if they can’t articulate it yet)
- Where their talents shine—in school, activities, work, or lived experience
- How to craft a compelling personal narrative that resonates with admissions readers
What You’ll Receive
By the end of the process, you’ll receive a customized college planning packet that includes:
- A clear, tailored list of safety, target, and reach schools
- Cost breakdowns for each school with estimated need- and merit-based aid
- Tax-optimized strategies specific to your household (based on returns and business structure)
- FAFSA and CSS Profile planning with adjusted AGI targets
- Timeline suggestions for SAT/ACT testing based on goals and context
- Support on early vs. regular decision based on your family’s values and financial picture
- A written narrative summary that highlights your student’s unique strengths and path forward
This service is as much about family planning as it is about college planning. Because the last thing we want to sacrifice in this process is joy.
Insurance Coverage May Apply
Because this service includes motivational interviewing and counseling-based components, some or all of the cost may be reimbursable through your health insurance, depending on your plan. I’m happy to provide documentation for out-of-network reimbursement where applicable.
Let’s start the conversation.
We’ll plan with heart, strategy, and precision—because college should be a milestone, not a meltdown.
– James Maguire, MST, MA
Maguire Taxes | My Choice Therapy