I think most people who pay way too much for personal trainers are actually paying to motivate themselves to go to the gym, then someone there acts like their mom and forces them to do chores. I suppose it's their money, but . . .
Anyway, in terms of actual help with programs and techniques or whatever, in most gyms you can find people who will gladly advise you without charging you. They may not be your mother/drill instructor, but they can tell you what you need to know.
Most people who succeed in the long term at lifting or bodybuilding or any kind of fitness routine are internally motivated. The people who need the crutch of someone forcing them to exercise usually don't do so well once they get on their own. I suppose if they can afford the trainer indefinitely it's not a problem, but most people can't.