The Cash Conundrum – When Money Makes Therapists And Coaches Cringe
- Oct 2, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 5, 2024
Written by: Renèe Hughes, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Picture this: you're a therapist or coach, armed with all the wisdom and skills to help people navigate life's challenges. But there's one topic that can make even the most confident practitioner squirm with discomfort: money. Yes, the green stuff, the dough, the moolah. It's a universal truth that talking about money can be awkward, but when it comes to discussing your business, it can send therapists and coaches into a frenzy of embarrassment. Let's dive into this conundrum and explore why your mood about money can make you want to crawl under your desk and hide.
The "But I just want to help" syndrome
Therapists and coaches enter their professions driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact on people's lives. They have a natural inclination to be altruistic and compassionate. So, when the topic of money arises, it feels like a betrayal to their noble intentions. Thoughts like, "Shouldn't helping people be reward enough?" or "Am I really allowed to charge for this?" bounce around their minds like a hyperactive kangaroo on a trampoline. The internal struggle between wanting to help and the need to sustain a business is as exhausting as it is perplexing.
The "Impostor syndrome coin flip"
Therapists and coaches are no strangers to the sneaky impostor syndrome, that nagging feeling of not being good enough or deserving of success. When it comes to talking about money and promoting their business, this syndrome can intensify to Olympic levels. They find themselves trapped in a never-ending coin flip between feeling like a fraud who doesn't deserve to be compensated and a confident professional who can change lives. Heads or tails, they can't help but feel a tad embarrassed, fearing they'll be exposed as an impostor if they dare mention their rates.
The "Money mind reader" dilemma
Ah, the mind-reading abilities of therapists and coaches! While they possess impressive skills in empathy and understanding, mind-reading isn't on the menu. When discussing their business and rates, they worry they'll be perceived as money-hungry monsters, capable of deciphering their clients' deepest financial secrets. They imagine their clients thinking, "They must know I can't afford this!" or "They're just trying to squeeze every last penny out of me!" The truth is, therapists and coaches are more focused on helping than snooping in your wallet, but the mind-reading myth lingers on.
The "Dollar sign dance"
Therapists and coaches are often passionate about their work, but when it comes to discussing finances, they enter the "dollar sign dance" with hesitant, awkward steps. They worry about appearing greedy or salesy, fearing that the mention of money will tarnish the genuine connections they strive to build with their clients. It's like attempting the cha-cha in a clown suit — a mix of clumsiness, self-consciousness, and an earnest desire to do right by everyone involved.
The "Can we just talk about feelings instead?" escape plan
When therapists and coaches find themselves in the uncomfortable realm of money discussions, a sneaky little voice in their heads whispers, "Can we just talk about feelings instead?" It's a tempting escape plan, diverting attention away from the topic of money and redirecting it to the warm and fuzzy emotions they excel at exploring. Unfortunately, business realities don't always allow for such convenient avoidance. So, they muster their courage, take a deep breath, and reluctantly broach the subject, all the while longing for the safety of emotions and deep psychological introspection.
Navigating the awkward terrain of money discussions can make therapists and coaches want to crawl into a cozy burrow and hide from the embarrassment. But fear not, fellow practitioners, for you are not alone in this comical conundrum. Embrace the fact that money is an essential part of sustaining your business and continuing to make a positive impact. Remember, it's perfectly okay to charge for your valuable services. Embrace your worth, let go of impostor syndrome, and approach money conversations with confidence and humor. After all, even therapists and coaches can find amusement in the quirky dance of finances. So, put on your bravest face, waltz through the discomfort, and continue helping others with your unique talents. And hey, don't forget to reward yourself with a little treat for facing the money monster head-on!
We know, this is easier said than done. So, we’ve designed an adventure just for you to help you navigate these emotions and move forward in your practice. Join us for the next Bold & Booked and see for yourself how quickly you can make these shifts and get profitable without embarrassment or guilt.
Renèe Hughes, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Renee Hughes is the CEO & Founder of The Aromaspecialists. She is a trailblazing aromatherapist and mentor who has shattered the myth that success in the clinical holistic industry requires endless hours and burnout. With a part-time approach, Renee has not only achieved remarkable financial success but has also supported hundreds of clinical business owners through her masterclasses and workshops.
Renee's mission is to help licensed and certified clinical and holistic business owners effectively communicate their value. While guiding them to the realization that a thriving business and personal well-being can coexist harmoniously.
