The Red Flags of Readings
This blog entry is the third installment of a five-blog series on Understanding Readings.
Given the misinformation and misunderstanding about intuitive (psychic) readings portrayed in the media and reinforced by the opinions of others, you may feel hesitant, nervous, or even scared. These misrepresentations cause many to feel they are entering the D-Zone (danger, darkness, and demonic). Unfortunately, as in any profession, some practitioners can be unethical, unprofessional, and even frauds or scammers. Readings are very personal experiences that can leave you feeling vulnerable. A professional reading should focus on clarity and empowerment and be offered in a safe, nonjudgmental space. They shouldn't create panic or suggest a negative, inescapable fate. Instead, they should respectfully explore your inner self and your life in a deep, meaningful way. Below are a few red flags to know:
Fear-based predictions. If “free will” is repeatedly used as a threat (“You have free will, but...“), the reader may be planting seeds of anxiety and using fear to create dependency.
Financial Manipulation. Be cautious of readers who claim you have a curse or negative attachment that requires additional, unreasonably expensive services, such as a mandatory clearing or unblocking fee.
Fishing. Be cautious when a reader asks overly broad questions and then uses the information you provide to validate their "intuitive" insight. Readers may ask questions for clarification or validation, but they shouldn't fish for large amounts of personal information.
Dependency Traps. A reader should not insist that you depend on them to make everyday decisions, guide you through a situation, or schedule frequent readings.
Me. Me. Me./Emotional Dump. The reader talks about themselves, and their experiences more than they focus on you and your reading. This may be a way to fill time because of inexperience, lack of focus, or an overly self-centered approach. When your session becomes a dumping ground for their life drama, the reading is no longer about you.
Toxic Gatekeeping. Be cautious of practitioners who put you or others in your life down, disrespect or put down fellow readers, or claim that their way is the only legitimate way. Professionalism doesn't require diminishing others to establish credibility.
The Mystical Persona. Stereotypical “Hollywood” costuming (capes, excessive jewelry, turbans) and props (crystals, statues) can sometimes be used to create an air of mystical authority. Clothing, decor, or spiritual objects aren't red flags by themselves. The concern is when theatrics are used to intimidate you, establish unquestioned authority, or distract from a weak or vague reading.
Professional, experienced readers have clear boundaries and are transparent about what they offer and what they charge.
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