What is sliding scale pricing, and why do I use it?

Sliding scale pricing adjusts therapy fees based on a client’s individual resources, like income, expenses, and financial privilege, rather than charging a fixed rate. I use this approach in my practice because I believe therapy should be equitable and accessible. It allows me to support a wider variety of people, and to volunteer my time to organizations which support individuals access therapy.

The “Green Bottle” framework created by Alexis J. Cunningfolk helps you understand where you may fall on the sliding scale. You may find that your circumstances don't fit neatly into one tier; this is a loose guideline, not a precise measurement.

Please note: you never need to explain or justify your experience to me, and I will never challenge or question your chosen rate. You are free to choose the rate which best suits your experience and affordability. Pay what feels right.

Tier 1: Limited Financial Resources – Pay What You Can (PWYC), up to £60

If you find yourself consistently stressed over meeting your basic needs and/or struggle to meet them, you may fall into Tier 1. A percentage of my client list is dedicated to PWYC spaces–reach out to see if there is currently space available. 

Tier 1 may look like:

  • Difficulty meeting basic needs like food, housing, transportation.

  • Limited or no access to savings or expendable income.

  • Reliance on public aid or benefits.

  • Struggling to afford new items or non-essentials.

  • Struggling with significant debt, and/or immigration expenses.

  • Experiencing discrimination in hiring or pay.

Tier 2: Moderate Financial Stability – £60 to £90

If you consistently meet your basic needs, but experience periodic concern over finances, you may fall into Tier 2. 

Tier 2 may look like:

  • Regularly able to meet basic needs, with occasional financial stress.

  • Limited savings, with some expendable income for non-essentials.

  • Ability to handle unexpected expenses, such as medical bills, with some difficulty.

  • Carrying some debt without significant strain.

  • Supporting dependents or family members with some financial strain.

Tier 3: Financial Privilege – £90 to £120

If you have reliable access to financial resources and rarely experience financial stress, you may fall into Tier 3. 

Tier 3 may look like: 

  • Easily able to meet basic needs like food, housing, and transportation.

  • Reliable access to savings, expendable income, and financial safety nets.

  • Ability to afford regular travel and non-essentials without financial strain. 

  • Comfortable owning or renting higher-end property.

  • Generational wealth or inheritance.

Determining Your Place on the Sliding Scale

I ask that you reflect on your financial circumstances to determine where you may fall on the sliding scale. You don’t need to share details about your finances during consultation, just let me know the rate that works for you. If you’re unsure of how to phrase it, here are some example statements: 

“I’m currently able to pay ££.”

“My current budget for therapy is ££ per week/month.”

“The best rate for me and my situation is ££.”

“I’m not sure where I fall within the tiers, but the rate that makes the most sense for me is ££.” 

How Sliding Scale Pricing Supports Accessibility

Sliding scale pricing is an ethical approach to therapy which recognizes the unequal distribution of financial resources. By adjusting fees based on financial privilege, I’m able to:

  • Reduce financial barriers for clients who need it.

  • Encourage equitability, so those with greater means contribute more.

  • Support the sustainability of my practice, allowing me to work with a greater range of clients.

This scale aims to create more equitable access to care. If you’re considering therapy but concerned about affordability, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you have around my pricing structure.