Important Information About Sliding Scale Fees

What is it?

A sliding scale fee is a reduced therapy fee that is offered to people who have legitimate financial need (e.g., low-income households).

What it is not:

It is not a discount available to those who prefer to pay less for therapy but can afford to pay the full fee.

If you are not from a low-income household and you prefer to pay a lower fee than $220 per session, I recommend searching for local therapists who have lower rates than mine. You can find them through Psychology Today and other therapist directories.

Who Qualifies?

Sliding scale is for households that have very little disposable income, such that paying the regular fee is impossible. The sliding scale fee is not a discount available to those who are feeling financially stretched due to paying out of pocket for a loved one’s college, going on nice vacations, or are actively choosing to take low-paying jobs or work part-time. It’s important that these limited spots are available to those who most need them.

If these slots are currently available, you will see that mentioned on the top of her homepage. You are also welcome to reach out.

When available, you may be able to have your sessions at Elese’s Walnut Creek office. If teletherapy is preferred or no in person slots are currently available, you can meet her through a secure virtual platform.

An impressionistic painting of tree branches and leaves with thick, textured brushstrokes in shades of green, black, and hints of white and yellow.

Understandably, many people wonder why so many therapists don’t accept insurance. After all, it appears that most dentists and doctors do. To provide transparency about this common barrier to therapy, I share 7 common reasons why therapists choose to leave insurance panels or never join one in the first place.