and therefore was surprised there was a lower rate available, that he had not mentioned or been willing to offer.

I swear even the best Ts when it comes to fees/payment, they all get squirrelly. And I really do feel that in many cases the "it's not personal" justification is just a mask for their own deep discomfort and protection of their self-image as a "care-giver" at odds with charging a fee for their services. It's understandable, and not rational, but it IS personal for them AND the client and I wish they'd just OWN it.