Do Queer Therapists Have A RIGHT To Charge Premium Fees; A Conversation With Lee And Courtney

The Money Sessions

In this episode, we're speaking with Lee Dal Pra, a Chicago based Social Worker and Courtney Wells, a Chicago based Psychologist. Both Lee and Courtney are working in private practice and wrestling with how to Lean In to charging premium fees and building generational wealth, while simultaneously contending with the messages that in order for Queer people and BIPOC people to deserve wealth, they have to work ten times harder AND focus on giving back to the community, ultimately sacrificing their own well being.

Why is it that we demand Queer people and BIPOC people do their own work to build wealth and make up for social injustice while also solving problems of mental health in society? Whooftah. We’ll take it up in this episode.

In this episode, we will cover:

Why Lee and Courtney decide to transition into private practice from high positions in the hospitalized mental healthcare setting;

How they have received pushback from peers on establishing private practice fees and coming off insurance panels;

How they served to challenge and encourage one another to grow as clinicians and business owners;

A candid conversation discussing the pressure on Queer and BIPOC therapits to self sacrifice in order to fix a broken system.

Resources mentioned:

Fun with Fees

Lean In. Make Bank.

4 Steps to Raise Your Fee Workshop

More about Lee:

Lee Dal Pra, AM, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in evidence-based therapy for young folx with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. Lee is the co-owner and Clinical Director of Mind Chicago, a relatable, science-based group practice for youth, young adults, and families. Lee is also a certified yoga instructor and crockpot aficionado.

To contact: 312-667-3775, [e-mail], www.mindchicago.com

More about Courtney:

Courtney Wells, PhD is a clinical psychologist who specializes in trauma. They are the owner of Pivot Psychological Services in Chicago providing evidence-based individual and group services for adults. Additionally, Dr. Wells works with other healing professionals through mindfulness and self-compassion to ensure their well-being and longevity in the field. Lastly, Dr. Wells is a lover of mystery novels and a tamer of two Pekingese.

To contact: 312-868-0163, [e-mail], https://pivotpsychchicago.org/