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I have had several comments lately from people who are unhappy with their current financial advisers. Some of these people have asked me to refer them to other advisers. The recent market conditions are causing a great deal of heartburn, and therefore poor portfolio performance is being blamed on advisers. I would bet, however, that most of the poor results people are seeing are not totally the fault of the adviser.

Case in point: The stock price of Wells Fargo & Co., a fine company with stellar results, is down 30 percent primarily because it is being tarred with the same brush as struggling companies just because it’s in the financial sector.

It does not make any sense at all to move to another adviser or another firm for poor performance unless the move is justified. An important part of successful investing is to stay focused and stay the course. If you and your adviser have a good solid plan and it makes sense for you, do not throw it out — keeping in mind that every plan will need adjustment and reallocation from time to time. As your personal situation changes (new job, new child, inheritance, college, etc.), you must reallocate.

If you are unhappy and considering a change, consider this: It may be your fault. Financial advisers are not mind readers. If you do not feel you are getting the attention you deserve, you need to share your feelings with your adviser. He or she may think that you understand exactly what is going on and that you are satisfied with the level of communication you are receiving. Or your adviser may think you have a better understanding of markets than you actually do and might not give you as much information as you desire.

All of that said, there are situations in which you absolutely should look for a new financial adviser. For example, if you have asked your adviser for more communication and information and do not receive it, if you simply cannot get comfortable with an adviser or you have just lost faith, by all means make a change. There are plenty of advisers out there who would love to have your business, no matter how small your account. You have to remember that you are the client. You and your spouse need to feel totally secure with the people who are taking care of you and your dreams.

When I am asked to recommend an adviser, I always give two or three names. Ask your accountant or attorney for a referral as well. You should interview several different advisers.

This market atmosphere is exactly why I preach diversity and careful investment portfolio balance. Keep looking at the models that are proven winners and make sure your adviser works your portfolio around them.

Do not throw out the adviser with the bath water unless it is deserved. If it is, dump him.

A financial adviser was having a conversation with a heart surgeon, and they were expressing their importance to a mutual client and patient. The doctor stated that if he made a tragic error, the patient could die. The financial adviser agreed, but said that if he made a terrible mistake it could be worse, because the client does not die, but he or she goes broke.

Daniel Ochylski represents commodities trading, private equity and real estate firms. To reach him, send an e-mail to dano@growthfp.com.