I am sorry to hear about your old therapist. That sounds quite rough. I do think it is possible to let the therapists handle their fees their own way - they do not offer to take less in fees unless they are willing to do so. If you think you could work with the one who offered a sliding scale, and you cannot afford her regular rate, then why not? I understand not doing it if you can pay her regular rate but just prefer not to, but if you cannot afford it, then take her up. Let the therapist handle their own finances is my opinion.