Sliding Scales: What are they about?

Therapy is not accessible for everyone, and in acknowledgement of that, some of our clinicians choose to offer a Sliding Scale. Colonization, cis-hetero-patriarchal, capitalist social structures of power affect all of us differently. As a result, this system is built on trust, as we understand that privilege is nuanced and can look differently for each of us. You can self-identify which category best suits your circumstances. As a result, there is also trust that as your financial circumstances change, you will let us know and adjust accordingly.

We acknowledge our sliding scale guidelines have been inspired by the learning gained from ‘Decolonizing Therapy’ under the guidance of Dr. Jennifer Mullan, Worts and Cunning Apothecary, and Toi Smith.

Sliding Scale Guidelines

Examples shown are representative of a standard 50 minute session

Equity Scale Pricing

Rate: $90-$110

Consider Equity Pricing if you:

  • Often find it hard to cover basic necessities*

  • Experience financial stress from debt or unreliable income

  • Lack a financial safety net, like savings or family support

  • Carry extra financial burdens, such as medical costs, immigration expenses, or dependent support

  • Rent social housing or have unstable living conditions

  • Don’t own a car or have limited access to one and struggle with fuel costs

  • Rely on public assistance programs

  • Have little to no disposable income

  • Can’t afford vacations or taking time off without financial strain

  • Are disabled and face out-of-pocket medical expenses not covered by insurance

Middle Scale Pricing

Rate: $110 up to your therapists full rate***

Consider Middle Pricing if you:

  • Usually cover your basic needs but occasionally feel financial stress

  • Enjoy a degree of financial stability (like having a job and access to healthcare)

  • Have some extra income to spend and can balance between buying new items and thrift shopping

  • Can occasionally afford vacations without major financial strain

  • Work as an unpaid or underpaid community organizer, activist, or frontline worker

Full Fee/Pay It Forward Pricing

Rate: Your Therapists full rate*** or more

(If you can pay above the full fee, know that extra goes towards supporting those paying at the lower rates.)

Consider Full Fee/Pay-it-Forward Pricing if you:

  • Easily cover all your basic necessities

  • Own property or rent upscale accommodations

  • Enjoy financial stability (employed or able to meet your needs without working, with minimal debt)

  • Have extra income** and a significant amount of discretionary spending

  • Benefit from high earning potential due to factors like education, privilege, or background, and recognize that privilege even if currently choosing not to exercise your earning power

  • Have access to a variety of options for transportation that prioritize your comfort and convenience

  • Have access to savings, investments, retirement accounts, or inheritance

  • Can afford leisure travel, take annual vacations, or take time off without worry

  • Choose to work part-time

  • Have family support and resources available in times of need

* Basic Necessities include food, housing, healthcare and transportation

** Extra Income means you can afford to buy a coffee or tea at a shop, go to the movies or a concert, buy new clothes, books, or similar items each month

*** Each clinician sets their own rates