What is Sliding Scale Therapy and How Does It Work?
Sliding scale therapy is a flexible payment model used by mental health professionals to make their services more accessible and affordable to individuals who may have financial constraints.
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/667f20f479283e5d1a556bff_65a6e5e998656f66d246edf4_Adhd20Paralysis20Blog20Image2020(124820x2058420px).png)
Are you facing mental health challenges and wondering if therapy is within your financial reach? You're not alone. Affording therapy can be difficult for many individuals, which is why there are many sliding scale therapists. With approximately 1 in 5 Canadians experiencing mental health issues each year, the cost of talking to a counsellor shouldn't stand as a hurdle in getting help.
What Is Sliding Scale Therapy?
Sliding scale therapy is a flexible payment model used by mental health professionals to make their services more accessible and affordable to individuals who may have financial constraints. This approach considers a client's income level, financial situation, or ability to pay when determining the fees for therapy sessions. Sliding scale therapists aim to ensure that all individuals have access to the help they need by acknowledging the financial diversity among clients and removing one of the main barriers to mental health care.
How Does It Work?
The idea behind sliding scale therapy is to adjust the cost of therapy based on the client's income or financial resources. For example, individuals with lower incomes or individuals facing financial difficulties pay a reduced fee for therapy sessions, while those with higher incomes pay standard or sometimes higher rates (depending on the care provider).
The specific criteria and range for the sliding scale fee structure vary widely among mental health practices. Some sliding scale therapists might base their fees on a percentage of the client's income, while others may use different criteria such as individual financial obligations, or their need for care to determine the reduced rates.
Most often, a mental health practitioner will set up an initial visit or call with you to determine your specific needs. During this consultation, a sliding scale counsellor will ask questions to get to know you and determine the level of care you require. From there, counsellors will determine your income, expenses, employment status, or any other stand-out financial details. Some therapists might request documentation, such as pay stubs or tax returns to verify income levels, while others may rely on information provided by the individual themselves.
Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that clients can get the care they need regardless of budget.
Finding a Sliding Scale Therapist
There are many ways to find therapists that offer sliding scale therapy.
- Reach out to friends and family and ask for referrals. Therapy is becoming increasingly popular and chances are you will acquire some great recommendations. If you aren’t comfortable asking friends or family members if their therapist offers sliding scale fees, inquire directly with the mental health professional.
- Look at online directories such as Psychology Today or GoodTherapy. These platforms allow you to search for counsellors that are available in your area and filter therapists by many criteria including their payment options and sliding scale fees.
- Search online for therapists in your area. The majority of them state on their website whether or not they offer sliding scale therapy.
- Contact mental health centres in your city as they can often provide a list of therapists in the area that offer sliding scale fees.
Although it may seem intimidating, it is important to inquire directly with mental health professionals about their sliding scale policies, eligibility criteria, and the range of fees offered. This approach allows you to determine whether the counsellor is the right fit for you and whether you qualify for reduced rates.
How to Ask a Therapist About Sliding Scale Fees
When reaching out to a therapist, it's completely okay to ask about their fee structure. You can start the conversation by expressing your interest in their services and then continue by asking about their payment options. For example, you might say, 'I'm interested in starting therapy, but I'm a bit worried about the cost. Do you offer any options for clients with financial constraints, such as sliding scale fees?'
Being transparent about your situation is also helpful. If they offer sliding scale fees, it's okay to ask for more details: 'Could you explain how your sliding scale system works? What factors are considered in determining the fee?'
Remember, therapists understand that affordability is a common concern, and they're usually open to discussing payment options that might work for you. It's about finding a comfortable and feasible solution that allows you to access the support you need without undue financial stress.
Sliding Scale Therapists at Phare Counselling
At Phare Counselling, we offer sliding scale fees to ensure everyone can access our services. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue wellness, and with in-person access to counsellors in BC, and access to all Canadians online, we will match you with a counsellor that meets your specific needs.
With sliding scale therapy starting from $60, we have the opportunity to make mental health more accessible, more inclusive, and more fair. Get in touch today!
Latest blog posts
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/668ec4b8361cea140ab1300c_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
Breaking the Cycle of Morning Anxiety
Do you often feel a sense of dread in the morning before you even get out of bed? Morning anxiety can make the start of a new day feel overwhelming.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/6685917c52d679715ef80f43_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
Therapy vs. Counselling vs. Coaching
Understanding the differences between therapy vs. counselling vs. coaching can help you better navigate your mental health journey.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/667c444ecf00d1aacc0f1c9b_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
High-Functioning Depression: 7 Signs and Symptoms
Those who experience depressive symptoms but can still go through the motions of their day are sometimes described as having high-functioning depression.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/6674691da50b4437d0dc4903_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
How to Heal Avoidant Attachment Style
Healthy relationships require communication, intimacy, and vulnerability. For people with an avoidant attachment style, this can be extremely difficult.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/6670868820f8a912d6116a19_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
What Qualifies for Stress Leave in Ontario: Everything You Need to Know
Here’s everything you need to know about what qualifies for stress leave and taking a mental health leave in Ontario.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/66623789fba2ec0e3b3eec20_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
Anxiety and Dizziness
When you’re dealing with anxiety, you may experience various mental and physical symptoms. Dizziness is a common symptom of anxiety...
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/6657711845335a44ff52d268_Phare%20Small%20Image%20(1).png)
How to Get Therapy Without Insurance
How much does therapy cost without insurance? Costs can vary depending on many factors, like the counselling type and location.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/664e37c9747ea43a0e043da7_Phare%20Small%20Image%20(1).png)
What Is Childhood Trauma and How to Heal From It
Learning how to heal from childhood trauma is essential for leading a happier, more resilient life in adulthood.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/66466192d55fc45bc34ad028_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
8 Ways to Get Out of a Depression Slump
Let’s take a closer look at the symptoms of a depression slump and explore some practical strategies on how to get out of it.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/663e526aa367c8b9fcac68e4_Phare%20Small%20Image%20(1).png)
6 Ways to Manage Anxiety in University Students
Anxiety in university students is very common. However, it can become problematic when it starts interfering with your life.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/663bbdfa18a703dd87f9d6f0_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
Arrivals Legacy Project and Phare
Arrivals Legacy Project will explore clinical, therapeutic, and spiritual healing practices in an upcoming webinar moderated by Phare Counselling co-founder Dr. Ray Hsu.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/6632b485d397572691cd3554_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
Trauma Bonding Withdrawal Symptoms and How to Manage Them
It’s important to understand the nature of trauma bond relationships, learn how to break a trauma bond and recognize and manage withdrawal symptoms.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/6626b2d54b6867a7d047b371_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
How to Heal and Self-Soothe Anxious Attachment
The relationships we form with others are essential to our well-being. For people with an anxious attachment style, the fear of rejection and abandonment can make it challenging to form healthy relationships.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/66197ac815f0f790aaa3366d_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
Online Vs. In-Person Therapy
With online counselling growing in popularity and availability, you may be curious about the differences between online vs. in-person therapy.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/661077497dff1eae16413a68_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
How Much Does Therapy Cost in Canada
Therapy has many benefits, from enhancing your mental and physical well-being to supporting your personal growth.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/6605d62f11aaacd1feea283e_Phare%20Small%20Image.png)
How Social Media Affects Your Mental Health
Have you ever started feeling anxious when you see social media posts about luxurious holidays, fun social events, or major life milestones?
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/65eb8f12b66ab8753e43ca45_Phare%20Blog%20Image-Small%20416x240.png)
Is Therapy Worth It?
Do you ever feel too overwhelmed to deal with your problems? If so, you’re not alone. According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, in any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians experiences a mental illness.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/65e620a68974582a5d93352b_Blog%20Image%20Adhd%20-Small%20416x240.png)
Set Boundaries, Find Peace: Therapeutic Book Club (March 14–May 9)
Join us March 14 to May 9, 2024, to learn simple yet powerful ways to set healthy boundaries in all aspects of your life!
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/65d8dee039cfe012f62aa41c_Blog%20Image-Small%20416x240.png)
What Type of Therapy Is Best for You?
Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or relationship issues, understanding your options is the first step towards finding the right path to healing and personal growth.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/65a6e45a98656f66d24582cd_Blog%20Image%20Adhd%20-Small%20416x240.png)
What is Sliding Scale Therapy and How Does It Work?
Sliding scale therapy is a flexible payment model used by mental health professionals to make their services more accessible and affordable to individuals who may have financial constraints.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/6595c969bcd68f311fd3c8ae_Blog%20Image%20Adhd%20-Small%20416x240.png)
ADHD Paralysis and 7 Tips to Overcome It
Discover how to combat ADHD paralysis with seven tailored tips. Learn effective ways to regain focus and productivity today!
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/655cfbbec37fe90965750480_Untitled%20design.png)
Coaching vs. Counselling: what's the difference?
Coach Emma Goult talks to Ray about the difference between counselling and coaching: how do you know which one's right for you?
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/654d2ceb092dc887d2d99168_Imagefdf.png)
5 Tips for managing ADHD symptoms in daily life
In this video, we'll be sharing 5 practical tips for managing ADHD symptoms in your daily life. Whether you've recently been diagnosed with ADHD or have been living with it for years, these tips can help you improve your focus, organization, and productivity. At Phare Counselling, we specialize in helping clients with ADHD through therapy and counseling sessions. If you're interested in learning more about our services, visit our website or book a session today.
Read More![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6121d696e0bf2639f4577019/654d2d30c5a6ec32619e730a_dfsdfgs.png)
ADHD life hacks: Creating a Daily Routine
Are you struggling to manage your ADHD symptoms? In this video series, we'll share practical tips and tricks to help you stay focused, organized, and on track. From creating a daily routine to managing distractions, these ADHD life hacks will help you take control of your life and thrive.
Read MoreMeet Phare the Counsellors
Our therapists specialize in a wide array of areas, including LGBTQ2+ concerns, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, and beyond. With their extensive experience and empathetic approach, our team members are equipped to guide you through your unique mental health journey.
Through years of experience, our registered counsellors have honed their skills and developed an empathetic approach that goes beyond traditional therapy. They understand that mental health challenges are deeply personal and unique to each individual. With a deep sense of empathy, they provide a safe space for you to express your feelings, thoughts, and concerns openly.
Discover our amazing team and find the clinical counsellor that is right for you.
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6117eaddc44327a3cbcbcb34/6553d7aa2b1370c79422564e_Meet%20the%20Therapists%20Image%202.png)
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6117eaddc44327a3cbcbcb34/6553d67d8d118ba8e5cd91b1_Meet%20the%20Therapists%20Section%20-%20Image%201%20.png)
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6117eaddc44327a3cbcbcb34/6553d84cbd4a60f33527d87a_Meet%20The%20Therapists%20Image%203.png)
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6117eaddc44327a3cbcbcb34/6553d92df9f8782cfddb88d9_meet%20The%20Therapists%20Email%205.png)
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6117eaddc44327a3cbcbcb34/6553d8ec1c698b29661fe5e5_Meet%20The%20Therapists%20Image%206.png)
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6117eaddc44327a3cbcbcb34/654c8f5077adfcb8ec0ceec0_Form%20Image%20(1).png)