A sliding scale is a flexible fee structure designed to make therapy and other mental health services more affordable. It adjusts the cost of each session based on your income or financial circumstances. This means that individuals with lower incomes pay less, while those with higher incomes pay closer to the standard rate.

The goal of a sliding scale is to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent people from accessing care. It reflects a belief that therapy should be equitable and inclusive, regardless of income level.

Mental health care should not be a luxury. Financial stress often prevents people from seeking support, even when they need it most. Sliding scale options promote accessibility and reduce stigma by acknowledging that everyone deserves care, no matter their financial position.

A sliding scale fee structure offers several key benefits:

Affordability: Sliding scale rates make therapy more accessible to individuals and families with limited financial resources.

Equity: Rather than a one-size-fits-all fee, the scale accounts for each client's unique situation.

Accessibility: It encourages early, consistent engagement in therapy — a key factor in long-term wellbeing.

For therapists, offering a sliding scale also aligns with values of social justice, compassion, and inclusion. It supports community wellbeing and helps bridge gaps in access for marginalized or under-resourced groups.

Asking about a sliding scale can feel uncomfortable, but it's a completely normal and accepted part of the therapeutic process. Therapists are familiar with these conversations and appreciate when clients bring them up directly and respectfully.

Here are some examples of how to ask:

"Do you offer a sliding scale or income-based rate?"

"I'm interested in working with you but want to understand your fee structure — do you have reduced-rate options available?"

"Could you share how your sliding scale works and whether I might qualify?"

If the therapist doesn't offer a sliding scale, they may still provide referrals to community clinics, nonprofit organizations, or low-cost therapy networks. The key is to ask — access starts with a conversation.

Call us at (515)738-0358 or email office@flyovercounseling.com.