Framework to Help Overcome Money Blocks

Framework to Help Overcome Money Blocks: The ERMA Method

(NOTE: If you haven’t read my blog post “What Are Money Blocks?”, I recommend reading that one first and returning to read this post after.")

If you’ve ever felt stuck when it comes to money—whether it’s hesitating to raise your fees, feeling guilty about making financial decisions, or avoiding money conversations altogether—you’re not alone. Many therapists struggle with money blocks, but the good news is, there’s a way to move through them.

That’s where the ERMA Framework comes in. This simple but powerful approach helps therapists overcome their money blocks by Externalizing, Reframing, Moving Through, and Taking Action. Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Externalize the Problem

“The person is not the problem, the problem is the problem”

~ Michael White and David Epston, Narrative Therapy founders

One of the biggest reasons money blocks feel so overwhelming is that we internalize them—we believe they say something about us as people like they are part of our identity in some way. But you are not your money block.

Just like in narrative therapy, where we help clients separate themselves from their problems, you can do the same with money. Externalizing allows you to see your money block for what it is: a learned pattern, not a reflection of your worth.

Example: If you struggle with financial co-dependency and feel guilty about raising your fees, you might think, I’m selfish for charging more. But externalizing shifts the perspective to: This guilt comes from internalized beliefs about putting others’ needs above my own. This is not who I am—it’s a pattern I’ve learned.

Step 2: Reframe Your Beliefs

Once you’ve externalized the money block, the next step is to reframe it. Reframing is about shifting from a limiting belief to an empowering one that better serves you.

Example Reframes:

• Instead of “Raising my fees is selfish,” try “Raising my fees ensures I can sustain my practice and continue supporting clients.”

• Instead of “Talking about money makes me uncomfortable,” try “Discussing money openly helps me create financial stability and model healthy boundaries for my clients.”

By reframing, you’re shifting the narrative and creating space for a more sustainable and aligned relationship with money.

Step 3: Move Through the Discomfort

Even with reframing, discomfort will still come up—this is normal. The key is to move through it rather than letting it stop you.

You already have the tools to regulate your nervous system, so use them here:

• Grounding techniques if you’re feeling activated like box breathing or a mindful body scan.

• Movement if you’re in a freeze state—stretching, shaking, or walking.

• Self-validation—reminding yourself that discomfort doesn’t mean danger; it’s simply your nervous system responding to an old pattern.

Instead of avoiding the discomfort, acknowledge it, work with it, let it pass, and move forward.

Step 4: Take Action

Once you’ve externalized, reframed, and moved through the discomfort, it’s time to act. Action is what ultimately creates change and gets us unstuck.

Example: If your money block is around raising fees, here’s a simple action plan:

• Prepare your script: Write out what you’ll say to clients.

• Practice with a colleague: Role-play the conversation if needed.

• Give clients proper notice: A clear, direct statement like, “As part of my practice policies, I review my fees annually. Given rising costs, I will be increasing my fee by $__ starting next month.” keeps things professional and neutral. And trust me, most—if not all—clients won’t be surprised or taken aback when you raise your fees over time.

Taking even small steps builds confidence and reinforces new financial habits.

Final Thoughts

The ERMA Framework gives you a simple yet structured, therapist-friendly way to break through money blocks and take control of your financial future.

Your relationship with money doesn’t have to be ruled by fear, guilt, or avoidance. With practice, you can rewire your beliefs, regulate your nervous system, and take action to build a sustainable, thriving practice—without sacrificing your well-being.

Ready to go deeper? Check out my Money Healing for Therapists resources and courses to continue your journey toward financial confidence and sustainability.