I personally would never see a therapist who expected me to pay if I gave them reasonable notice that I could not make the appointment. I know some therapists act like it is a salary for them. If it works for you, then fine, but I would not hire one who worked like that. I think there are plenty out there who are not completely incompetent who do not work like that. In my community, it is not usual for a therapist to expect a salary. I am particularly appalled at how those types dictate the time off (their vacation for example, but not the client's).