Sliding Scale

I offer a three-tiered sliding scale to support accessibility while honoring the value of this work. Please choose the rate that best reflects your financial circumstances. I have offered some considerations to help you select your tier. This framework is inspired by the Green Bottle Method, created by Alexis J. Cunningfolk.

Tier 1 – $80 per session – Supported Rate

This rate is for those with limited financial access. You might be balancing essentials like rent, childcare, or debt, and paying for therapy feels like a significant stretch. This tier exists to help make therapy more reachable when it's most needed.

Guidelines for this tier:

• You often worry about covering basic needs like housing, food, or health care

• Debt sometimes prevents you from meeting basic expenses

• You may rent low-cost housing or have unstable housing

• You may not have a car, or can't always afford gas

• You're unemployed, underemployed, or relying on government assistance

• You have little or no savings

• You rarely buy new items or attend events due to cost

• Taking time off or vacation feels out of reach

Tier 2 – $125 per session – Mid-Range Rate

This is a reduced rate made possible by those who pay the full fee. It’s for those who can generally meet their needs and afford some comforts, but for whom the full fee would create a financial strain.

Guidelines for this tier:

• You can usually meet basic needs, but it can be stressful

• You may have debt, but it doesn’t prevent you from getting by

• You lease or own a car, and have steady employment

• You have access to health care

• You may have some savings

• You can buy some new items and thrift others

• You can take occasional time off or a modest vacation without major strain

Choosing this rate helps sustain this sliding scale model while offering you a reduced fee.

Tier 3 – $140 per session – Supporter Rate (True Cost)

This is the full, unsubsidized rate — the true cost of a session. Paying this rate supports the sustainability of my practice and helps make lower-fee spots possible for others. If you have financial stability or more access to wealth, this is a way to invest in both your therapy and the broader community.

Guidelines for this tier:

• You consistently meet all basic needs without strain

• Debt does not impact your ability to live comfortably

• You own property or rent at a higher rate

• You have regular access to health care and savings

• You have expendable income for leisure, dining out, or entertainment

• You can afford vacations or take time off when desired

• You do not need to work to meet your financial needs, or are supported by someone who has the means to care for you financially

A Note on Integrity and Community Care

This sliding scale is based on mutual trust. By honestly assessing your financial situation, you help keep therapy accessible for others. Choosing a lower rate than your circumstances warrant may limit someone else’s opportunity to receive support. I appreciate your thoughtfulness in selecting the tier that truly fits.

Services Offered

Individual psychotherapy sessions are 50 minutes long and available to adults, ages 18 and older.

In-person sessions are held in a private office in the Village of Arroyo Grande. Free street parking and a parking lot are available for your convenience.

Online sessions are offered to California residents, or to those who prefer the convenience of remote therapy.

Insurance and Payment

I am an out-of-network provider, which means I do not bill insurance directly. Payment is due at the time of our session. I accept all major credit cards, as well as cash or check.

Benefits of Private Pay

Choosing private pay allows me to provide the highest quality of care without the restrictions imposed by insurance companies. With private pay, you have more flexibility in the type, frequency, and duration of your therapy sessions. Insurance companies typically require a diagnosis and detailed documentation of your sessions, which can limit your treatment options.

By not using insurance, you ensure that your therapy remains confidential and personalized to your unique needs. Insurance companies will not have access to your records.

What if I want to use my out-of-network benefits?

If you have a PPO insurance plan, I can provide you with a superbill (a detailed receipt) each month, which you may submit to your insurance company for potential partial reimbursement.

Please note that using out-of-network benefits requires me to provide a mental health diagnosis. I’m happy to discuss this with you and answer any questions you may have.

I recommend contacting your insurance company before scheduling to inquire about your out-of-network benefits, including whether you have a deductible to meet before therapy sessions will be covered.