The Conversations Clinicians Avoid — and Why They Matter
Contributed by Bernadette Chavez Piñon, LPC, SEP — Lead Therapist & Collective Community DirectorWhat if the conversations we avoid as clinicians are the very ones that expand our capacity the most?
Last month, we gathered for a live, online Money Talksworkshop to explore something rarely addressed in graduate school or traditional clinical training: money, sustainability, and the tension between being a helper and running a business.
Building Capacity for Financial Conversations in Clinical Practice
A Healgood Collective Continuing Education Workshop | Digital Workshop Bundle
Presented by: Bernadette C. Pinon, BBA, MA, LPC, SEP
1.5 Ethics CEUs
Let’s start here…
Do money conversations in therapy ever make you feel anxious, avoidant, or conflicted?
Have you ever found yourself undercharging, overexplaining, or bracing for rupture when discussing fees?
Do you want language that feels clear and boundaried, while still compassionate and relational?
Or maybe you were never formally trained in how to talk about money at all, yet you find yourself navigating these conversations regularly.
If any of this resonates, you are not alone.
Money conversations are some of the most emotionally charged moments in clinical practice, and yet many clinicians are left to navigate them without enough guidance, reflection, or support.
This workshop is designed to change that.
Workshop Overview
Money conversations often bring up anxiety, guilt, fear of rupture, and complex questions about worth, privilege, responsibility, and care, for both clinicians and clients.
This 90-minute experiential and reflective workshop invites clinicians to slow down and build greater capacity for values-aligned financial conversations.
Participants will explore:
• Why talking about money can feel so difficult
• How personal histories and systemic realities shape these interactions
• How to communicate rates and boundaries with clarity, confidence, and care
Clinicians will leave with practical scripts, increased emotional tolerance for money-related discomfort, and a grounded framework for making financial decisions that support ethical practice and long-term sustainability.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to:
• Identify common emotional and relational dynamics that arise during money conversations in therapy
• Describe how clinicians’ personal histories, professional identities, and systemic factors influence fee-related decision-making
• Evaluate how ethical fee practices, transparency, and boundary management in financial transactions support and protect the therapeutic relationship in accordance with ethical codes and BHEC regulations
• Apply values-aligned frameworks to evaluate ethical financial decisions in clinical practice
• Demonstrate clear, compassionate language for communicating rates, policies, and boundaries with clients
• Increase emotional tolerance and self-regulation when navigating money-related discomfort or potential rupture
Who This Is For
This workshop is appropriate for:
• Licensed mental health clinicians (LPCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, LPs, etc)
• Associates and provisionally licensed clinicians
• Private practice owners
• Clinicians navigating fee-setting or rate increases
• Therapists seeking more confidence in financial boundary conversations
Presenter Bio
Bernadette C. Pinon, BBA, MA, LPC, SEP brings over fifteen years of experience in counseling and nearly a decade of running her own solo private practice. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from St. Edward’s University and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Texas State University, uniquely positioning her at the intersection of clinical care, ethics, and the realities of sustaining a practice.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, EMDR-trained clinician, and meditation teacher, her work is trauma-informed, body-based, and culturally responsive.
As Community Director of the Healgood Collective, Bernadette is known for creating spaces where clinicians can be honest about what feels hard. Her facilitation style balances structure with spaciousness, depth with warmth, and clarity with care.
She is deeply committed to helping clinicians develop language and frameworks that feel ethical, compassionate, and sustainable.
Format + Use
Format: Digital PDF Download (includes slide deck with embedded links)
Your purchase includes a PDF copy of the slide deck containing:
• A link to the full workshop recording
• A link to the CE evaluation and content quiz
• Additional materials you can download, save, and revisit
This is an on-demand learning experience designed for flexible, self-paced engagement.
Use: Individual use only
This purchase provides access to the workshop content (slide deck, presentation recording, linked resources and handouts) and CE credit opportunity only. It does not include any additional resources, consultation, supervision, or additional training services.
For group use, team access, or organizational licensing, please inquire directly.
Access Details: After purchase, you’ll receive a secure download link via email. The link remains active for 24 hours after first access, so we recommend downloading and saving your materials right away.
Important Notice
This resource is intended for educational purposes only.
Downloading or accessing this material does not establish a therapeutic relationship, supervisory relationship, or consulting relationship with Healgood Holistic Counseling Center, Chelsea Fielder-Jenks, LPC-S, CEDS-C, or any other presenters or affiliates of Healgood Holistic Counseling Center.
No clinical, supervisory, or consultation services are implied or provided through this purchase.
This resource is licensed for individual use only. Redistribution, sharing, or reproduction without written permission is not permitted.
For permissions or group use inquiries, please contact us.
Continuing Education Information
This offering provides the opportunity to earn 1.5 Ethics CEUs.
Healgood Holistic Counseling Center structures its continuing education activities to meet requirements for Texas BHEC licensee's, including the BHEC 50% approved provider rule for LPCs and LMFTs.
Acceptance of CE credit is determined solely by each participant’s individual licensing board, credentialing body, or employer. Requirements may vary across professions and jurisdictions.
Healgood Holistic Counseling Center does not guarantee acceptance of CE credit by any licensing board.
Participants are responsible for verifying CE eligibility with their respective licensing board prior to purchase.
To support CE eligibility, Healgood Holistic Counseling Center:
• Maintains presenter qualifications (CV/resume) on file
• Provides a structured educational activity
• Requires completion of an evaluation and content knowledge check
• Issues a certificate of completion upon verification
How CE Credit Works
Participants may earn 1.5 Ethics CEUs by:
• Viewing the full workshop recording
• Completing the CE evaluation and content quiz via the linked online evaluation form
After submitting the online evaluation, participants will receive access to download, save, and print their CE certificate as a PDF.
Partial credit is not available.
On-Demand Learning Format
This is an on-demand, recorded training of a previously held live event. Live participation is not included.
Refund Policy
All purchases are final and non-refundable.
Due to immediate access to downloadable materials and recording links, refunds cannot be issued.
Questions
For questions, accessibility needs, or group licensing inquiries, please contact us.
What surfaced wasn’t just strategy — it was something more honest:
Relief.
Validation.
A shared recognition that navigating values, identity, worth, and professional boundaries is emotionally charged work.
Because money in clinical practice is never just about money.
It touches power, access, ethics, self-worth, and the stories we carry about what it means to care.
And when we avoid these conversations, they don’t go away — they show up in quieter ways: undercharging, overextending, resentment, burnout, or disconnection from our own sustainability.
But when we turn toward them — together — something shifts.
Therapy is relational.
And so is professional growth.
When we slow down, reflect honestly, and practice staying grounded in discomfort, we build capacity — not just for our clients, but for ourselves as clinicians and humans.
If this is work you’ve been circling, you don’t have to do it alone.
If you missed our live Money Talks workshop (1.5 Ethics CEUs), no worries — it is now available in our digital CE library — a self-paced opportunity to deepen your relationship with money in practice, at your own pace, with both clinical and ethical grounding.
If you’re craving in-person connection, we’d love to have you join us at an upcoming event or gathering:
Unmasking Autism
by Dr. Devon Price
6 Distinct Population CEUs Available
Continuing education doesn't have to feel rushed, transactional, or isolating.
Join therapists, dietitians, physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other helping professionals for four thoughtful discussions of Unmasking Autism by Devon Price. Together, we'll deepen our understanding of neurodiversity while earning 6 Distinct Population CEUs in a learning experience designed to foster reflection, connection, and meaningful conversation.
This four-part fall book club invites helping professionals into a thoughtful exploration of Unmasking Autism — a book that has been regarded as a powerful and paradigm-shifting examination of autism, identity, masking, and liberation.
Whether you read every chapter, skim sections, or mostly come to listen and reflect, there is no "right" way to participate here.
Led by Healgood Collective, this group is designed to be warm, spacious, and clinician-centered. You're welcome to share your thoughts, ask questions, or simply be present.
Bring your lunch, settle in, and come as you are.
Why This Book?
Many helping professionals are seeking a deeper, more nuanced understanding of autism beyond outdated stereotypes and deficit-based frameworks.
Unmasking Autism offers an accessible yet deeply meaningful exploration of:
Masking and camouflaging
Neurodivergent identity development
Misdiagnosis and systemic barriers
Intersectionality and marginalized autistic experiences
Authenticity, self-understanding, and liberation
This book club creates a grounded structure for helping professionals to engage with these ideas thoughtfully while connecting with peers in meaningful conversation.
It's an opportunity to deepen both professional understanding and personal reflection, as well as build community with other clinicians.
Why Join?
More than a book club, this is a professional learning community.
Some of the most meaningful learning happens through thoughtful conversation with colleagues from different backgrounds and disciplines. Whether you're looking to deepen your understanding of neurodiversity, reconnect with the joy of learning alongside peers, or simply earn your Distinct Population CEUs in a more engaging way, this series is designed to support both your professional growth and your sense of connection.
About the Book
Unmasking Autism challenges conventional narratives around autism and offers a compassionate reframe that centers lived experience, diversity, and authentic selfhood.
Dr. Devon Price weaves research, personal narrative, and practical insight to help readers better understand autistic experiences—particularly among those historically overlooked, misdiagnosed, or pressured to conform.
This book is especially relevant for professionals seeking to expand neurodiversity-affirming practice.
How the Group Works
The book will be explored over four monthly meetings from September through December.
Each meeting is guided by a thoughtfully designed one-page (front and back) discussion handout that highlights key concepts, learning objectives, reflective questions, and opportunities for clinical application. The handout serves as a roadmap for our conversation while leaving plenty of room for curiosity, connection, and the unique perspectives participants bring to the group.
You are welcome to:
Join even if you didn't complete all the reading
Read at your own pace
Listen, share, or participate in whatever way feels supportive
Engage with both personal reflection and professional application
We encourage participants to commit to the full series, as conversation and connection naturally deepen over time.
There's No "Right" Way to Participate
Read every page. Skim the chapters. Bring notes. Bring questions. Come mostly to listen.
However you choose to engage, you're welcome here.
What You'll Leave With
By the end of the series, participants will have:
A deeper understanding of autism beyond traditional stereotypes and deficit-based models
Greater confidence applying neurodiversity-affirming concepts in professional practice
Practical ideas for supporting autistic individuals with greater curiosity and compassion
New perspectives gained through interdisciplinary discussion
Meaningful professional connections with fellow helping professionals
Up to 6 Distinct Population CEUs
Continuing Education
Up to 6 Distinct Population CEUs Included
This series includes 1.5 Distinct Population CEUs per meeting (6 total CEUs) built directly into registration.
Participants who complete all continuing education requirements may earn CE credit at no additional cost.
CE Requirements
To receive 1.5 CE credit for each session, participants must:
Attend the full live meeting (1.5 hours)
Complete a post-session evaluation that includes a short reflection and content check related to the assigned reading
CE credit cannot be awarded for attendance alone, and no partial CEUs will be granted.
Continuing Education Information
This program is designed to meet Texas BHEC Distinct Populations continuing education requirements for LPCs and LMFTs, including the 50% rule for hours obtained through approved providers.
For Texas Social Work and Psychology licensees, these offerings may be counted toward continuing education requirements as non-approved provider hours (the remaining 50%), in accordance with board guidelines. We’ve designed these trainings with licensure requirements in mind; however, requirements can vary and evolve. As with all continuing education activities, final responsibility for license compliance remains with the participant.
Schedule
First Fridays | 1:00–2:30 PM
September through December
Location: Central NW Austin, 78731 (address to be emailed prior to first meeting)
September
Meet the group
Set intentions
Explore the Introduction + Chapter 1
October
Chapters 2–4
November
Chapters 5–7
December
Chapters 8–Conclusion
Final reflections
Integration
Closing discussion
Registration & Pricing
Full Series Registration: $200 ($50 per session)*
Includes:
Four facilitated discussions
Light refreshments
Up to 6 Distinct Population CEUs
Space is intentionally limited to preserve the warmth, connection, and meaningful discussion that make this experience unique.
*If cost is a barrier, please don't hesitate to reach out. Accessibility matters to us, and we're happy to discuss options whenever possible.
Who This Is For
This series may be especially meaningful for:
Therapists
Psychologists
Dietitians
Physicians
Psychiatrists
Nurses
Occupational therapists
Speech-language pathologists
Clinical supervisors
Graduate students and trainees
Neurodiversity-affirming clinicians
Helping professionals seeking a deeper understanding of autism, masking, identity, and neurodiversity-affirming care
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to finish the reading before each meeting?
While we encourage participants to read as much as they're able, we understand that life, work, and competing demands can sometimes get in the way. You're welcome to join regardless of how much you've read. Many participants find that some of the richest learning comes from listening, reflecting, and engaging in conversation with the group.
Is this only for therapists?
Not at all. We welcome professionals from a variety of disciplines who support neurodivergent individuals. Interdisciplinary conversation is one of the greatest strengths of the group.
Do I need experience working with autistic clients?
No. This series welcomes both professionals who are newer to neurodiversity-affirming practice and those with extensive experience.
Will I receive a Certificate of Completion?
Yes. Participants who successfully complete the continuing education requirements for each session will receive a Certificate of Completion documenting 1.5 Distinct Population CE hours earned for that meeting. This program is designed to meet Texas BHEC Distinct Populations continuing education requirements for LPCs and LMFTs. Participants who complete all four meetings may receive certificates documenting a total of 6 Distinct Population CE hours. Licensed professionals from other disciplines are responsible for verifying applicability with their individual licensing board.
A Note About Our Learning Community
This series is designed to be thoughtful, relational, and engaging.
You don't need to be an autism expert or have all the answers. Curiosity, openness, and a willingness to learn alongside others are enough.
Whether you come ready to discuss every chapter or simply listen and reflect, your presence matters.
Come as you are.
Questions? Please contact us — we’re happy to help!
Workshop Overview
In a field that asks so much of us, it can be easy to forget that we are worthy of care, creativity, and celebration too.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month (May) and National Mental Health Provider Appreciation Day (May 12), we invite you into a different kind of gathering—one that centers joy, expression, and connection.
Wear Your Worth is a small, intentionally curated Healgood Collective Social Workshop where providers will connect and have fun creating their own affirmation jacket—a wearable piece of art designed to reflect identity, values, resilience, and meaning.
You’ve heard of affirmation cards.
This is something you can wear—an expression of your values, your voice, and your work.
Through patches, pins, paint, and creative adornment, you’ll design a jacket that serves as a tangible reminder of your work, your worth, and your story.
No artistic experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to play.
Workshop Details
Date: Friday, May 15
Time: 1:00–3:00 PM
Location: Healgood Office
Capacity: Limited to 6 participants
This is a small, intentionally intimate group designed to support connection, creativity, and spaciousness.
What to Expect
A guided, low-pressure creative experience
Time for reflection and intention-setting
Connection with fellow providers in a small-group setting
A finished (or in-progress) affirmation jacket to take home
We’ll Provide
A curated assortment of materials to choose from. Each participant will select:
1 large patch (iron-on or glue-on; approx. 6–8+ inches)
3 medium patches (iron-on or glue-on; approx. 1.5–3 inches)
3 small patches (iron-on or glue-on; approx. 0.5–1 inch)
1 enameled pin (e.g., “Mental Health Matters”)
1 brooch or decorative pin
You’ll also have access to a variety of creative materials, including:
Fabric paints, stencils, brushes, sponges, and more
Mixed adornments (ribbon, buttons, beads, charms, fabric accents, embellishments)
Tools and supplies for application
Light refreshments will be provided.
You Bring
Your own jacket (denim, canvas, or similar recommended—something sturdy enough to support patches and adornments and compatible with iron-on or fabric glue application).
We encourage you to bring a jacket you already own or thrifting one for sustainability and creativity.
Hosted by
Chelsea Fielder-Jenks, LPC-S, CEDS-C, PMH-C & Bernadette Chavez Piñon, LPC, SEP
Registration
$115 — Supported
Covers basic workshop materials and light refreshments | Limited Availability$125 — Sustainer
Reflects the full cost of supplies, space, and facilitation$135 — Pay-It-Forward
Helps make it possible for others to attend at the Supported level while supporting Healgood’s community offerings
We offer tiered, equity-based pricing to support both accessibility and sustainability. Your registration includes all materials and contributes to the continuation of future community offerings.
Spots are limited and tend to fill quickly.
Important Event Information
Limited to 6 participants to preserve an intimate experience
No refunds (registration may be transferred if needed; please contact us)
Event will begin promptly at the scheduled start time
Materials are provided; additional customization items are welcome
Optional Community Donation Drive
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month and Therapist Appreciation, we’re also hosting an optional donation drive in support of Dress for Success Austin, which provides professional attire and resources for women entering or re-entering the workforce.
If you feel called, you’re welcome to bring gently used or like-new women’s professional clothing and accessories to contribute.
Accepted items include:
Women’s professional clothing (suits, blazers, dresses, shoes)
Handbags and jewelry
Unused toiletries or cosmetics
Guidelines:
Items should be clean, workplace-ready, and in like-new condition
Styles should be current (generally within the last ~5 years)
Please bring items on hangers if possible
Drop-Off Options:
Bring donations with you to the event
Or drop items in the designated bin in our lobby
We’ll collect and deliver all donations following the event.
First Fridays Book Club: At 1:00 PM on the first Fridays of the month, we gather for our Book Club and we continue to explore our current book selection, Maybe You Should Talk to Someone — a thoughtful, human look at what it means to sit on both sides of the therapy room. 1.5 CEUs available per meeting. Even though we’ve already begun, new members are always welcome. You’re invited to join at any point.
Wear Your Worth: A Healgood Collective Workshop & Social — a small, creative gathering for clinicians to design affirmation jackets and reconnect with the meaning behind their work
Bi-weekly Consultation Group: On Wednesdays from Noon - 2 pm, we meet for case consultation, clinical feedback, and genuine community. Bring your questions, challenges, and need for connection to a space designed to replenish you while strengthening your practice.
You don’t have to have it all figured out to show up.
Just a willingness to stay curious, to be in process, and to engage in the conversations that matter.
We’d love to see you there!
