I have made the choice to try a new “tiered, class-equitable, pay-what-supports-you pricing.”
The following text comes from my clinical mentor, Dr. Scott Blossom, L.Ac., who has offered sliding scale pricing for many years in clinic and retreats/ workshops. It has benefited me greatly and encourages us to engage in right relationship with our finances.
My new sliding scale pricing is there to support, not scare you. If you have needs or questions, just ask.
“We believe that pricing doesn’t have to be a weapon of classism: it can and should be a joyful act of service that creates stronger communities. Our model is inspired by the Green Bottle Model from Worts + Cunning. We also want to help to create a conscious, intentional and value-aligned culture of payment.
Please read the following criteria and determine which price is appropriate for you:
Highest price: You have access to financial security, own property, or have personal savings; if you are able to pay for “wants” and spend little time worrying about securing necessities in your life; if you have economic privilege and power in our community, this price is for you.
By choosing this price, you are “paying it forward” and contributing to a more equitable world (by allowing Daulton Wellness to support those who may be unable to afford services or herbal medicines).
Middle price: You may be paying off debt or working to build savings, but you also have access to steady income. You do NOT spend most of your time thinking about meeting basic needs such as food, shelter, medical care, child care, etc.
Making this investment might mean you might have to cut back on some discretionary spending in your life (such as going out to dinner, buying coffee, buying a new outfit, or going on vacation), but the sacrifice is short-term, and will not harm you in the long term.
Lowest price: You have access to basic needs such as food, housing, and childcare, though sometimes it may feel difficult. You are able to put away money each month to save up to be able to pay for services, but the middle tier price would mean that saving causes you undue hardship and stress.”