We are generally pretty good at recognizing when we need to go to the doctor. Most of us still don't go, but at least we know that we should. We are also good at knowing when we need the help of other professionals, like professionals who will fix our car or our computers.

It's a little bit ironic that when it comes to one of the most important and central things in our lives-our financial situation-we don't even think about turning to professionals for help and advice. Instead, we try to figure out the complicated world of savings accounts, investments, credit, mortgages, loans, and retirement accounts on our own. But people go through years and years of schooling and training to really get a grasp on these things!

Some people do really well taking care of their own financial planning. They read up on their options, and they are good at determining budgets and allocating their money to different accounts and needs. But some people just aren't that great, and so they should turn to professionals for their financial advice.

You ultimately need to determine if you need professional financial advice. But here are some situations and problems that might lead you to turn to a financial professional for guidance.

• Use a financial professional due to a personal lack of time.

  We all have tons of demands on our time. With work, personal life, taking care of kids, doing things that you enjoy, going to school, and more, we are all searching for more time to do what we need to. And taking care of your money is no exception to the demands of time. You have so much going on that you probably don't have the attention to spare that you need to be serious about watching your finances.

  Going to a financial professional can help you look at the whole picture instead of just looking at little details whenever you have time. Financial professionals can also give you the tools that you need to deal with your finances. Professionals can not only take care of your finances, but can show you how to integrate financial attention into your busy life.

• Use a financial expert for specific issues.

  There are some areas of finance that require professional expertise beyond your own understanding. For example, maybe you want to get into investing in certain stocks or mutual funds. While there is a lot of information out there on the Internet that can help you try to figure things out, the final line is that you might be more comfortable with the expertise of an actual pro. Similarly, if you are in a complicated position with your taxes, or you don't understand your taxes, you might want to consult a tax professional.

• Getting a second opinion

  Just like a lot of the time you want a second medical opinion, it might be a good idea to get a second opinion when it comes to your finances. You might feel good about the choices that you have made, but consulting a professional for a second opinion can make you feel better about the choices that you've made and the plan that you have developed, whether long-term or short-term.

• Help with changes in situations.

  Often, serious changes in your life situation can make you a little unsure about how to proceed financially. Situations like this include marriage, death, birth, illness, divorce, or changes in your employment, like starting out a new business. Consulting a financial professional can help you develop a plan to fit your new circumstances.