Let's Talk About Money (Yes, Really!)

Derrick Hoard
May 27
2 min read

I know. Money talk is awkward. But so is struggling in silence because you thought you couldn’t afford help—when actually, you could have just asked.

So let’s clear something up:

Yes, my rate is $350 per session. Yes, I believe I’m worth every penny. And yes, I offer financial scholarships.

Not as a discount.

Not as charity.

But as a value-aligned choice—because I want to make space for the right clients, not just the highest-paying ones.

Why I Charge What I Do

I’ve been in this field for nearly a decade. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients, many of whom were burned out, neurodivergent, healing from trauma, or navigating identity and relationship challenges. I didn’t read about this in a textbook—I’ve lived it, studied it, and walked with people through the worst and best of it.

What you’re paying for isn’t just my training or my credentials.

You’re paying for my time.

Time I spend:

Holding complex emotions without judgment
Crafting strategies that actually work (and stick)
Showing up fully present, every single session

At this stage of my practice, charging $350 is what allows me to:

Stay fully focused on fewer clients
Avoid burnout so I can keep doing this work long-term
Offer free and low-cost therapy to underserved folks in my community (especially other marginalized groups who deserve care without jumping through a thousand hoops)

This isn’t just business—it’s sustainability. For you, and for me.

Okay, But What If I Can’t Afford That?

That’s exactly why I offer a financial scholarship.

It’s not a handout.

It’s not a negotiation.

It’s a quiet, no-pressure option for people who are a good fit for this work.

And here’s the kicker:

👉🏾 The only requirement to qualify is that we’re a good fit. That’s it. If we click, if the work feels aligned, if I believe I can help—you’re eligible. And if you ask, I’ll tell you what I can offer. No shame. No weirdness. No essay required.

This is why I do free consultations. So we can talk, feel it out, and see what’s possible—financially, emotionally, logistically.

So... Should You Ask?

Yes. Yes, you should.

If the work calls to you, if something in your gut says this is the person I want to work with—then bring it up. Let’s have the conversation. I’d rather have one honest moment of financial transparency than watch someone silently walk away from the care they need because they assumed they couldn’t afford it.

One More Thing

If you’re someone who can pay the full rate, just know that you’re helping me offer life-changing support to people who can’t. That’s part of what keeps this whole system equitable and rooted in community, not capitalism.

We’re all playing a role here.

Mine is to make therapy accessible, powerful, and real.

Yours is just to show up—and ask.