Great discussion.
To the point above - the reason we come to Anabolicminds.com.... feedback.
Even the most skilled professional in the world cannot be an outside eye. An outside eye, with an unbiased look, on where we could improve. I fully agree with the thought process already mentioned, that the underlying drive must come from within, yet... it's an act of humility to look to others to ask for advice. If we stand in arrogance that "we have it all figured out", our advancement will reach a ceiling. This is true in business, in relationships... we can agree with that. "All that I know, is that I know nothing".
Always stay humble, and always be a student. It should be our aim to keep that as a front sight focus. Our intrinsic drive is there, and OP, I don't think you're asking this question if it weren't. I think what you're asking for, is the best possible training program. Something tailored to you, so that every workout, no less every repetition, is in your best interest.
You mentioned "to emerge from the other side". Someone above mentioned interviewing. I 100% agree with that. There are "transactional" trainers out there, that are very good at the X's and O's. The simple science of it all in regards to which movements we are doing today. Then there are "transformational" trainers. Those who can change you for the better. Make you a better human being. A more powerful force, inside the gym and out. You'll know them when you see them, but it may take some interviewing, as anything worth while would.
In terms of price, there are always bundle packages or things of that nature, which all depends on how frequent you would want to meet up with the trainer. I would venture a guess of $50-100 an hour for a strong trainer, with $100+ for a higher level coach.
In that last sentence, I purposely used the word "coach" in that specific spot.
Always stay humble. Always stay a student. Let's always learn, together. That's why we come here to AM brothers.