A qualified financial planner is a professional who who helps individuals and corporations meet their long-term financial objectives by analyzing the client's status and setting a program to achieve that client's goals.  Financial planners primarily specialize in Estate Planning, Investment Planning, and Retirement Planning which can be provided as one service or individually depending on your personal needs.  Depending on the setup of their business practice as well as the levels of certifications and licenses they hold these planners can also work with products related to saving, investing, taxes and insurance.  It's easy to understand where confusion comes from given the multitude of licenses, certifications, specialties, and payment structures that these individuals can use as the structure of their business so use all the resources you need here to make sure you are prepared to initiate and consult.  Although most planners offer advice on a wide range of topics, some specialize in areas such as retirement and estate planning or risk management.

CFP Board of Standards

Financial Planning Association