Reciprocity

The traditional Shaman can be seen as somewhere between trade-based profession and role within the community. Profession meaning they do this for a living and spend their life dedicated to their craft. That means on going schooling, tools to purchase or make, traveling when needed, working overtime, and all the bills that go with that. The reason why profession must also doesn't complete their title is that they have a role beyond exchange of goods, money, or services. They are neutral mediators to the natural and spiritual roles, so they are flexible knowing that some who really need their help may not be in the best finical situations. The expressed goal is harmony and balance.

Unlike a carpenter, surgeon, dentist, or landlord, you may be able to find mutual exchange in shells or bones you found, possibly home-grown food, a skill you have, or something else the shaman may need at that time. Shamans are still people meaning just like you they have bills to pay, rent/mortgages, cell phone bills, car payments, and of course families and lives to live beyond all that. AND just like any tradesman, you wouldn't want those kinds of people moonlighting to just get by and unable to provide their role to the community.  

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In the end what is important to remember is what you put in is amplified back to us, simple as that. Help is not just for those who can "pay", it is for all who need it. No one will be turned away just because of their finical situations, reciprocity can be found with respectful and considerate communication.