Tarot How-To: Finding the Right Tarot Reader for You
The right tarot reader is out there for you, you just have to be good about knowing what you’re looking for.
Last night, I binged a couple of YouTube videos by Casper (Boy Diviner) and ended up watching a tag for tarot readers on YouTube. The tag revealed a lot about Casper’s personality, which got me to thinking about how important it is (for me, at least) to know who’s going to pull cards for me. I wouldn’t just entrust my questions and my stories with just anyone, you know?
I don’t have my cards professionally read very often—probably just once a year, but the readers I’ve chosen to pull for me have been vetted many, many times. Some of them I found on YouTube and got to know their techniques through the videos they post. Others, I found on social media and what made me want to have my cards read for them were ultimately a mix of their captions, their website, and some behind-the-scenes stories that show off who they are (through a less performative lens).
I actually had my cards read just this week and ended up with a lovely, resonant reading that I know I’ll keep going back to in the months to come. It would be great if we all had that experience with a reader, but I know it’s not always 100% for everyone.
I thought I’d write about some key questions that I ask myself when looking for a reader. I hope that these points will help *you* find your reader match in the event that you’re jonesing for a reading too. (And if you’re so inclined and want to get to know me too, just tap / click the video above and here my answers to the tag!). Here goes:
Figure out who you need to talk to. Define the vibe.
You may want to talk to a contemporary—someone who’s almost like a friend. But is that the kind of voice you need to hear? Maybe it’ll be more helpful to talk to a nurturing, motherly figure, a strict college professor type, or someone from a different country or culture. I know what you need vs what you want may not be immediately obvious to you, but I feel that giving this some thought can help you filter through the many many tarot readers that proliferate the online and offline spheres.
Maybe if your main issue is career, you’d rather talk to someone who seems ultra profesh; if you’re going through some important spiritual shift, you may want someone a little more esoteric or witchy; or if you’re dealing with love problems, you may want to talk to someone who can tell hard truths (that even your best friend can’t dish). I like my readings to be done by people who are confident but gracious, are around my age or older than me (because I do value the wisdom that comes with age!—personal preference), are well-spoken, and who I feel I can relate to (in terms of tastes, hobbies, aesthetics, background).
Consider your budget.
If you’re strapped for cash, then your go-to may be one of those free-reading websites (which may or may not give you substantial answers, who knows…). There are readers that are super affordable but give pretty decent guidance, and there are readers who’ve garnered a huge internet following and thus command a higher price. I’d say, don’t ever pay more than you can afford. If you’re going for a tarot reading, you’re already probably dealing with some issue in your life. You don’t want to add debt to those issues you’re dealing with!
Listen to your intuition.
I feel that your gut will always know which readers are sketch and which ones are sincere. May some reader’s been super successful and all your friends have tried their services but you’re feeling a little bit iffy about their methods, their language, or even when / where they want to hold the readings, then pay attention. Readings are incredibly intimate and you don’t want to be opening up your personal Pandora’s Box in front of someone you don’t really have a good feeling about.
Pay attention to the reading format. see what works for you.
This is super important to me because I am very wary about Skype / FaceTime readings. They make me very uncomfortable. Some readers who I’ve gone to before for audio recorded readings or even email readings have now transitioned to pure real-time readings and as much as I LOVED their reading style, I just can’t stomach a Skype appointment. LOL. If you’re the type who wants your questions answered conversation-style then look for someone who’ll do a video chat. If you’re shy, then perhaps an email reading will work better for you. Need someone to hold your hand through it? Then maybe what you need is a reader who’s willing to hop on a group call with you and your best friend. Don’t ever feel like you’re signing up for something you’re comfortable with. There will be a reader who offers what you need in the format you need it to be delivered.
Do your due diligence.
Sure, readers will post testimonials on their sites or post readers’ feedback on Instagram Stories, but I feel that the true reviews will come via word of mouth (meaning: the reader isn’t publishing people’s testimonials to garner more attention—while this is acceptable and totally okay, I feel that it’s less authentic than a recommendation from someone you actually know). Know that sometimes, blog posts that pat certain readers on the back may have been sponsored too! You’ve got to dig and dig well in order to see if the reader with the rave reviews actually deserves the five or 10 star-ratings.
Check the reader’s code of ethics.
I would say, stay away from someone who hasn’t outlined their policies. One, it’s not very professional. Two, you may be signing up for something you aren’t really ready for.
Speaking of professionalism, a good reader lets their best work speak for itself.
If a reader has to keep talking about how amazing they are at tarot, then I feel that there’s probably something a little dubious there (red flag!!!). Professionalism means showing up on time or sticking to deadlines. It’s also being able to communicate well (if they can’t communicate well with you while you’re booking your reading, then how do you expect to get a good read on the cards?).
I hope this helps you figure out what you’re looking for in a reader too. Getting a tarot reading is such a special experience and I feel like you kiss less frogs if you take the time to search and probe before taking the plunge.
xx