This is laid out as a guide with dot points, but it's not a checklist or tickbox exercise. These points give you an idea of where you might choose to contribute along the sliding scale based on your circumstances.
If several experiences from the lower end apply to you, consider choosing a lower rate, and vice versa.
Important: Consider intersectionality—the idea that overlapping and intersecting systems of disadvantage create greater disadvantage. For example, being a BIPOC single parent with disability faces compounded barriers that someone with just one of these experiences may not face.
Are BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, or a person of colour)
Are neurodivergent
Have several dependents and/or are a single parent
Are an elder on limited or fixed income
Have been incarcerated and have limited work opportunities
Have high medical expenses not covered by insurance
Are dealing with burdensome debt
Are LGBTQIA+
Have a disability (visible or invisible)
Are a migrant, asylum seeker, or have a visa that restricts your ability to work
Are a full-time carer for family members
Are a student with limited income
Are experiencing temporary or ongoing unemployment or underemployment
Cannot comfortably meet your basic needs (housing, food, healthcare)
Have little to no savings or financial buffer
Are white, university-educated, cisgender, able-bodied, or otherwise advantaged in our current society
Can comfortably meet your basic needs without financial stress
Own your own home or have stable, secure housing
Have assets such as land, investments, or retirement funds
Can travel for recreation or holidays
Can afford to eat out regularly without budgeting carefully
Have or will have access to inherited wealth or family financial support
Earn over $60,000 per year (individual income)
Have savings or an emergency fund
Have access to private health insurance
Can afford this consultation without it impacting your ability to meet other needs
Ask yourself these questions:
Will paying the higher rate cause me financial stress or anxiety?
If yes → choose a lower rate
Do I have a financial safety net (savings, family support, stable income)?
If yes → consider the higher rate
Am I part of communities that face systemic barriers to financial stability and healthcare access?
If yes → factor this into your decision
Can I afford this investment without impacting my ability to pay for essentials?
If no → choose a lower rate
If yes → consider the standard or middle rate
Would I feel comfortable paying this amount without resentment?
Choose the rate where your answer is yes
This sliding scale system works because those with financial privilege pay the standard rate, which allows me to offer reduced rates to those facing barriers.
If you can comfortably afford the standard rate ($220), I ask that you choose it. This is how we create access for others.
If everyone chose the lowest rate, I wouldn't be able to sustain this practice or continue offering sliding scale pricing. Your honest self-assessment and integrity make this system possible.