Initial consultation rate

[gahrahstah]

Hi all

I have been doing a lot of expensive study this year plus I haven't changed my rates in 2 years so I will be increasing my rates later this year to compensate. I was thinking about having a higher rate for just the initial consultation for new clients to cover extra time for client history, assessment, etc then subsequent visits will be at normal rate. I was thinking just a few $$ more to cover the extra 10 mins I spend with them. Does anyone have this in their fee schedule? Do you think it will deter clients, especially if someone just wants relaxation work, has no injuries, medical issues, with minimal assessment required?
I'm a little hesitant to do it as I'm in a rural area with a thrifty clientele but the local chiro & PT does it.
Any thoughts?

Cheers
Oz

 

[2hot4u69]

I don't charge for it, I figure it is part of what we need to do to treat them, and it is a respect for the client to sit down and talk with them about what is going on, and most will come back if you give them that time. If you start charging for a "consultation" they will probably not want to be consulted.

 

[akristel2003]

Some practitioners (I'm thinking esp. of docs) do have one rate for initial appts. and then a lower one for subsequent appts. Could be worth a try, esp. if clients then feel like they're getting a sort of a discount by coming back.

 

[Bogey]

How much time are you spending extra at the first session? Around here the practitioners average a 30 minute consultation or interview before the session starts. So a first time client spends 90 minutes for a 60 minute appointment and is charged for a 90 minute appointment. There is one place that offers a "no obligation, free consultation" for 15-20 minutes.