Sliding Scale
Pay “what-supports-you” pricing
Please keep in mind that if you opt into a lower price, when you can truly afford a higher price, you are limiting access to those who truly need the gift of financial flexibility. If participating in therapy means making short term sacrifices, having to get creative or asking others for support and does not actually jeopardize your safety, try to use those resources before using the sliding scale. This will limit opportunities for others.
At the end of the day, the sliding scale thrives on trust. Trust is a pretty amazing thing. I trust you to be honest in your assessment of your economic reality. Since the sliding scale is a tool of accountability, it is an ongoing conversation towards learning how to talk about your economic experiences.
This model is inspired by the “Green Bottle” framework created by Alexis J. Cunningfolk (www.wortsandcunning.com)
At Cost
$250.00
I can afford to pay at cost
I can easily cover all my essential expenses, including food, housing, and transportation, without financial strain. Any financial stress I experience is unrelated to meeting these basic needs.
Any debt I have does not prevent me from covering essentials.
I have stable employment, or I am a stay-at-home caregiver by choice with a partner who is securely employed, or I do not need to work to maintain my lifestyle.
I live in a home that is comfortable, well-equipped, and spacious enough for my needs.
I own or lease a car and have the option to replace it with a newer model every few years if I choose.
I have reliable access to healthcare whenever necessary.
I maintain savings that I can draw from when needed.
I can purchase new items as desired.
I generally have extra income to spend on luxuries and indulgences.
I’m typically able to choose higher-quality or premium products when I prefer them.
Affordable
$225.00
Sometimes I can’t pay at cost
Financially, I consistently cover my basic needs, including food, housing, and transportation, with ease. Any financial stress I experience is typically unrelated to these essentials.
Any debt I have does not interfere with meeting my basic needs.
I have stable employment, or I am a stay-at-home caregiver who chooses not to work outside the home, supported by a partner with steady employment.
I live in a home that is comfortable, adequately spacious, and equipped with modern amenities.
I own or lease a vehicle and can afford its upkeep, or I have chosen a car-free lifestyle.
I generally have access to healthcare when I need it.
I might have some savings available to use during times of financial need.
I can often buy new items, although larger purchases may require some planning.
I occasionally have discretionary income, allowing me to enjoy small luxuries or indulgences each month.
With planning, I can take a vacation every year or two.
Accessible
$200 (1-5 items apply)
$180 (6+ items apply)
Financially, I sometimes struggle to meet my basic needs, such as food, housing, and transportation, and I frequently feel stress about covering these essentials.
I may have debt that occasionally prevents me from meeting these needs.
I am unemployed, underemployed, or concerned about my income or the stability of my job.
My housing situation may lack space, comfort, modern conveniences, or stability.
I do not own a car by choice, have limited access to one, or cannot consistently afford gas.
I do not always have access to the healthcare services I need.
I lack savings to rely on when funds are low.
I seldom buy new items and evaluate necessity.
Discretionary income for indulgences, like new clothes or entertainment, is sometimes available to me.
Vacations are generally unaffordable, and taking time off work is a financial strain or poses a risk to my job security.