10/08/2024
I've been getting a number of inquiries recently about the availability of sliding scale rates in my practice and I wanted to give some clarity on my socials about this because I understand it's a little bit complicated. I don't offer as much sliding scale openings as I used to but it's still an important part of my practice. My sliding scale rates take 3 forms:
1. If you are in a financially limited situation that is potentially temporary I am often comfortable extending a time-limited introductory rate. This often applies to people experiencing unemployment, temporary disability, or re-skilling.
2. I maintain a few "permanent" sliding scale slots to new clients on an ongoing basis. I manage those slots through Open Path Collective and you can always check https://openpathcollective.org/clinicians/sam-wilson/ to see if there is availability. Long term financial need is a major consideration in determining qualification for these spots but it's not the only consideration.
3. I have a handful of legacy clients who have a lower rate either because we initially contracted under a lower rate or I extended them a sliding scale rate prior to starting my Open Path account. I have always honored my commitments to clients and the best way to avoid (unfortunately inevitable) higher rates in the future is to lock in a rate contract with me now.
Let me know if you have any further questions. And if you're one of the majority of my clients who pay full rate (or use out of network benefits) please know that part of what you are supporting is my ability to offer lower rates to special populations and some folks who are currently struggling financially.
Sam Wilson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Kensington, MD; Sam Wilson specializes in Anger Management, Attention Deficit (ADHD), Hyper Sexuality or Sexual Compulsions, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustment Disorders
