When I first launched my practice in early 2023, I was told I couldn't be a counsellor and charge an hourly rate that actually sustains a business. There was so much noise out there. So, I did what a lot of us do: I gave more for less.
I said yes to discounts, sliding scales and anything that kept someone happy. I'm a people pleaser, a chronic overthinker and a procrastinator with a history of self-sabotage, so saying no felt impossible. Every few months I hit burnout, working 10-hour days because I felt guilty for saying no. We are not a charity
Yes, many of us offer voluntary hours on placement. But when you graduate, you have permission to charge for your services. Charging for your sessions is not unethical. It is part of building a healthy practice, and a practice that survives is one that can keep helping people. Today I see charging $125 per hour, and $250 for a 90-minute couples’ session, as a privilege. I got here by learning the value of a dollar the hard way, not by being money hungry.
Are you tying your rate to your self-worth?
Here are some signs that your price might be coming from fear:
You charge a low rate because you doubt you're worth more.
You rush to offer a discount when your calendar is quiet.
You'd rather fill a spot with a low-paying client than wait for your ideal one.
You say yes to every booking out of fear of missing out.
When your rate is tied to your worth, people get less for less, and you end up doing more and getting less time for yourself.
Don't decide from the story
Every client we work with has a story of struggle, pain, health issues and money worries. But when we say yes from a place of honouring the story, we invite burnout, resentment and fatigue into our business.
A low-cost session can absolutely be part of your practice. The difference is that it's a strategy based on a business plan, not an impulsive decision. Sliding scales are valuable when you choose them on purpose, not as a default for everyone.
One small step this week
Write down the rate you charge now, then the rate that would feel sustainable. Notice what comes up in your body. That feeling is information, not a verdict. In one review of my own business, I renegotiated an EAP rate from $50 to $77 per hour. It started with sitting down and looking at what was really going on.
If you'd like a hand with this, my training Stop Giving More for Less ($67) walks you through setting your rate, raising it and ending the discounting cycle. You can also book a free 15-minute call and ask me anything: www.embodiedhaus.com.au
Results vary. These are my experiences, not a guarantee of yours. This post is general information, not financial or professional advice. Prices in AUD
