Here are some general guidelines on how to navigate a sliding scale and help determine where you fall on it.
The top end of the scale reflects the true cost. This is what I would charge all clients in the absence of a sliding scale. If you are financially secure, you would not traditionally qualify for sliding scale services. If you are able to pay for "wants" and spend little time worrying about securing necessities in your life, you have economic privilege and power in our community. This price is for you.
The middle range reflects my understanding that paying full price would prevent some folks from being able to afford massage, but do not honestly find themselves described in either the top end or bottom ranges. If you are struggling to conquer debt or build savings or move away from paycheck to paycheck living but have access to steady income and don’t spend most of your time thinking about meeting basic needs, this is your range.
The lowest cost represents an honest acknowledgment that there are folks whose economic circumstances prevent them from receiving massage if there was not a deliberate opportunity made for them to do so. If it’s a struggle to maintain access to needs such as health care, housing, child care etc and/or you live paycheck to paycheck/are in significant debt, this option is for you. You deserve a community that honours your price as equal of an economic offering as the person who can pay the highest tier.
If the lower tier is still prohibitive, I am open to extended payment plans and other solutions.